Theodosia, the first gentlewoman of her time; the story of her life, and a history of persons and events connected therewith

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:

Theodosia.

THEODOSIA

THE FIRST GENTLEWOMAN
OF HER TIME

THE STORY OF HER LIFE, AND A

HISTORY OF PERSONS AND EVENTS

CONNECTED THEREWITH

BY

CHAS. FELTON PIDGIN

Author of " The Burr Trilogy," " Little Burr" " Blennerhassett"

and " The Climax "

o i •>

BOSTON
THE C. M. CLARK PUBLISHING CO.

1907

414335

-- . -• — -*»*•.

COPYRIGHT, 1907, BY

CHAS. FELTON PIDGIN

BELMONT, MASS.

•

• •

c • •

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C I * ' * «

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JEFFERSON

HAMILTON

AARON BUfcR

THEODOSIA

[Mrs. Theodosia Burr Alston, Daughter of Vice President
Aaron Burr, and Wife of Governor Joseph Alston.]

.

(ZTo

THE YOUNG WOMEN

GRADUATES OF

ADVANCED INSTITUTIONS OF LEARNING

IN

AMERICA AND FOREIGN LANDS

THIS BOOK IS DEDICATED

*

IN MEMORY OF

THEODOSIA

V

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fll

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

THE biographer or historian must have the help of others.
His work is not one of imagination, but the recording of facts
— or what are deemed to be such. In books, magazines,
newspapers, official records, old letters, family Bibles, and
many other receptacles, are stowed away the material that he
needs. How can he unlock these treasure-houses ? Only by
the help of those who know where they are, or who possess them.

In the preparation of this work, I have had aid from hundreds
of sources. My own reading and investigations have been
supplemented by the willing assistance of many who have sent
me books, newspapers, clippings, and photographs.

To enumerate them all would require pages of this volume;
their names, however, may be found in the 'Personal and
Topical Index " which forms part of Chapter XX.

To those who have courteously allowed the use of copy-
righted material, my special thanks are due. My intention
has been, in all such cases, to give credit in connection with the
article or illustration. If any omission has been made, I shall
deeply regret it.

Few books, if any, are perfect, and this one may contain
errors of omission and commission; but, I trust, after due
allowance is made, that the reader will admit that new and
convincing material has been discovered; that many errors
have been corrected; that many harassing doubts have been
set at rest; and that I and my assistants, in the words of an old

writer, "have endeavored well."

CHAS. FELTON PIDGIN.

WIDEVIEW FARM, BELMONT, MASS.,
Aug. 15, 1907.

•

IX

THE "TRUTHS55 OF HISTORY

THE fact that a large proportion of all the history of all the
world is false is perhaps known to few people. That American
history, particularly, abounds in errors, blunders, and stereo-
typed falsities, is known to even a smaller number. Walpole,
wishing to amuse his father after an unusually wearisome day,
proposed reading to him from a book of history. "Anything
but history," said the old man: "for history must be false."

When it is considered that historians in every period of the
world have been narrowed and biased by personal opinion and
surrounding circumstances, the wisdom of this remark is per-
ceived. The worst part of it all is that once a mistake has been
made it has rarely been rectified, each succeeding historian
being content to accept as facts the work of those who went be-
fore him. The ultimate result of this was that the mistakes were
believed by those who read them, and events in history that
never happened, or were false, were accepted by the world and
ever after known as the markers of important epochs.

It would take volumes to contain all the blunders, small,
large, and indifferent, that historians have made, and the la-
mentable part of it is that the old blunders are constantly being
made over again, so that with the errors that are bound to
occur in the history of the present, and the mistakes that our
forefathers made and which we are still making, history in
time will become little more than a long though extremely
interesting work of fiction. — Boston Post, Oct. 21, 1906.

CONTENTS

CHAPTER I PAGES

HER ANCESTRY 1-10

CHAPTER II

REVEREND TIMOTHY EDWARDS (HER GREAT-GREAT-GRAND-
FATHER) 11-20

CHAPTER III

THE REVEREND JONATHAN EDWARDS (HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER) 21-62

CHAPTER IV

MRS. SARAH PIERPONT EDWARDS (HER GREAT-GRANDMOTHER) . 63-70

CHAPTER V

REVEREND AARON BURR (HER GRANDFATHER) 71-83

CHAPTER VI

MRS. ESTHER EDWARDS BURR (HER GRANDMOTHER) .... 84-102

CHAPTER VII

COLONEL AARON BURR (HER FATHER) 103-114

CHAPTER VIII

MRS. THEODOSIA PREVOST BURR (HER MOTHER) 115-174

CHAPTER IX
HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 175-206

CHAPTER X

RICHMOND HILL (HER LIFE AT RICHMOND HILL) 207-222

xi

xii CONTENTS

CHAPTER XI PAGES

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 223-266

CHAPTER XII

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 267-306

CHAPTER XIII

HER FATHER IN EXILE 307-336

CHAPTER XIV
HER LAST VOYAGE 337-356

CHAPTER XV

HER SUPPOSED FATE 357-405

CHAPTER XVI

HER CONFESSED EXECUTIONER 406-412

CHAPTER XVII

HER SILENT WITNESS 413-426

CHAPTER XVIII

HER PORTRAITS . 427-439

CHAPTER XIX

REMEMBRANCES 440-459

CHAPTER XX

AUTHORITIES AND REFERENCES — BIBLIOGRAPHY — PERSONAL AND

TOPICAL INDEX 460^484

Authorities and References 461-467

Bibliography 468^74

Personal and Topical Index 475-484

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

NO. FACING PAGE

1. Theodosia Burr Alston, daughter of Col. Aaron Burr, wife of Gov.

Alston of South Carolina — from a miniature by St. Memin, in
the possession of Hampton L. Carson, Esq., of Philadelphia .

Frontispiece

2. The Burr Coat of Arms — from The Burr Family, by Chas. Burr

Todd 10

3. Where Jonathan Edwards was born — from the Boston Sunday

Globe, Oct. 4, 1903 16

4. The Reverend Jonathan Edwards 22

5. The Edwards Coat of Arms — from The Edwards Memorial . 30

6. A Leaf from the note-book of Rev. Jonathan Edwards ... 36

7. Monument to the Rev. Jonathan Edwards at Stockbridge, Mass. —

from the Christian World and Congregationalist, Oct. 3, 1903 . 50

8. Hexagonal Revolving Desk used by the Rev. Jonathan Edwards -

from the Christian World and Congregationalist, Oct. 3, 1903 . 54

9. The "Jonathan Edwards Tree" at Northampton, Mass. — from a

photograph furnished by Hon. Egbert G. Clapp, Mayor of North-
ampton 58

10. Tablet to the Rev. Jonathan Edwards in the First Congregational

Church, Northampton, Mass. — from a photograph furnished by
Hon. Egbert G. Clapp, Mayor of Northampton 60

11. Miss Sarah Pierpont, who became the wife of Rev. Jonathan

Edwards — photographed from the original painting expressly

for this work 64

12. Mrs. Sarah Pierpont Edwards, wife of Rev Jonathan Edwards —

from Esther Burr's Diary by Prof. Jeremiah Eames Rankin . 70

13. Law School at Litchfield, Conn. (1784), the first in America, estab-

lished by Judge Tappan Reeve, Aaron Burr's brother-in-law . 72

14. The Rev. Aaron Burr, father of Vice-President Aaron Burr — from

Esther Burr's Journal, by Prof. Jeremiah Eames Rankin . . 74

15. The Lower Green, or Military Common, Newark, New Jersey —

from an old wood-cut furnished by Mr. John D. Anderson of East
Orange, New Jersey 76

• • •

sau

xiv LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

NQ FACING PAGE

16. Nassau Hall, the foundation of Princeton University, of which Col.

Burr's father and grandfather were Presidents — from an old

print 76

17. The First Presbyterian Church at Newark, New Jersey, of which

Col. Aaron Burr's father was, at one time, pastor 78

18. The "Parsonage" at Newark, New Jersey, where Col. Aaron

Burr was born — from Historic Houses of New Jersey, by W.

Jay Mills, published by J. B. Lippincott Co., Philadelphia 80

19. Judge Tappan Reeve's House at Litchfield, Conn., where Aaron

Burr lived when a young man — from a photograph furnished by
Edward Denham, Esq., of New Bedford, Mass. . 106

20. "The Hermitage" at Paramus, New Jersey, the Residence of Mrs.

Theodosia Prevost who became the wife of Col. Aaron Burr, from
a photograph furnished by F. J. Walton, Esq., of Ridgewood,
New Jersey 124

21. Rear View of "The Hermitage" as it appeared in 1861 . . .126

22. An Old Dutch Tile from the Dining Room of " The Hermitage," from

a photograph furnished by F. J. Walton, Esq., of Ridgewood, New
Jersey 126

23. The Dutch Reformed Church at Paramus, New Jersey, where Col.

Burr and Mrs. Prevost are reported to have been married — from
a photograph furnished by F. J. Walton, Esq., of Ridgewood,
New Jersey 138

24. Governor William Paterson of New Jersey 140

25. James Parton, one of Col. Burr's biographers — from "The Writer,"

edited by Wm. H. Hills, Boston, November, 1891 .... 150

26. Hon. James Monroe, a friend of Theodosia's mother — President

of the United States, 1817-1824 172

27. "Grace Greenwood" (Mrs. S. J. Lippincott) Mrs. Harriette Clarke

Sprague's aunt 178

28. Mrs. Harriette Clarke Sprague, 5th cousin to Theodosia; related also

to the Arnold family 178

29. Hon. Robert R. Livingston, U. S. Minister to France .... 180

30. Miss Nathalie de L'Age, Theodosia's French companion, afterwards

daughter-in-law of Gen. Thomas Sumter 182

31. Mary Wollstonecraft, after a portrait by Opie, author of A Vin-

dication of the Rights of Woman — from a Life of William God-
win, published by Roberts Bros., Boston 184

32. " Richmond Hill," occupied at various times by Gen. Washington,

Vice-President John Adams, and Col. Aaron Burr — from In
Old New York by Thomas A. Janvier, published by Harper &
Bros., New York 208

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS xv

NO. FACING PAGE

33. What Occupies the Site of Richmond Hill - - from The Republic,

published (probably) in St. Louis, Mo 212

34. Theodosia before the Pirates — from John Williamson Palmer's

poem in the Century Magazine, Oct., 1895 374

35. Theodosia "walking the plank" -from Palmer's poem . . . 374

36. Mrs. Rebecca Motte, connected, by marriage, with the Alston family

of South Carolina --from the American Portrait Gallery . . . 400

37. Where the Wind Does the Work ; map showing the Atlantic Coast of

North Carolina, and the location of Kitty Hawk and Nag's Head
— from the National Geographic Magazine, Washington, D. C.,
edited by Gilbert H. Grosvenor 414

38. Mrs. Theodosia Burr Alston, from the Nag's Head Portrait —

photograph furnished by Mrs. Marie Armistead Moore Matthew,

of Georgetown, South Carolina 422

39. John Vanderlyn, a protege of Col. Aaron Burr, who became a cele-

brated painter — from the Collection of the late Judge W7m. H.
Safford, of Chilicothe, Ohio 428

40. Mrs. E. M. Miller (Jeanne Ogden) of Salt Lake City, Utah, 4th

cousin to Theodosia 430

41. Mrs. Catherine Drake Herbert, 4th cousin to Theodosia . . . 432

42. Mrs. Caroline Edwards Drake Bailey, 4th cousm to Theodosia . . 434

43. Theodosia, from the portrait by Vanderlyn — from the Life and

Times of Aaron Burr by James Parton 436

44. Mrs. E. M. Miller, of Salt Lake City, Utah, 4th cousin to Theodosia,

dressed in imitation of the Vanderlyn portrait of Theodosia . . 436

45. Theodosia — from Chas. Burr Todd's The Burr Family, by per-

mission of Harper & Brothers, New York 440

46. Edward Edwards, son of Timothy and Rhoda Ogden Edwards, first

cousin to Col. Aaron Burr and 2d cousin to Theodosia -- from

an old miniature 440

47. Mrs. Elizabeth Miller McCullough, 5th cousin to Theodosia . . 444

48. Edward Edwards Drake, 4th cousin to Theodosia 448

49. Mrs. Stella Edwards Pierpont Drake, 4th cousin to Theodosia . . 452

50. Mrs. Drake (in silhouette) 454

THEODOSIA
CHAPTER I

HER ANCESTRY

PRIDE of birth! An honorable ancestry! It
has been said of Edmund Burke (1) : "No one
that ever lived used the general ideas of the thinker
more successfully to judge the particular problems
of the statesman. No one has ever come so close
to the details of practical politics, and at the same
time remembered that these can only be understood
and only dealt with by the aid of the broad concep-
tions of political philosophy. And what is more
than all for perpetuity of fame, he was one of the
great masters of the high and difficult art of com-
position.'1 The veneration shown by the Oriental
nations of their ancestors is well known, and Burke
voiced a sentiment most pertinent to the subject
before us and one entirely in line with Oriental
opinion. He said: 'He only deserves to be re-
membered by posterity who treasures up and pre-
serves the history of his ancestors.'1

When the aristocracies of birth (which was often
synonymous with rank), education, and wealth were
compared in the olden days, that of birth led, as is
written above. That of education has always held
the middle position. As honor and education were
more valued than money, wealth could not get
higher than third place, the bottom of the list. In

i

2 THEODOSIA

modern times the aristocracy of birth has needed
stronger foundations than memories of past great
deeds, and wealth made by others now largely
supplies the superstructure for the maintenance of
old and noble families. An English statistician
has computed that the two hundred or more Amer-
ican \vives of the English nobility and gentry have
brought their husbands nearly two hundred mil-
lions of American-made fortunes as financial key-
stones to support the decaying English homes of
those with an ancestry of record.

Next to pride of ancestry, or connection by de-
scent from a particular family, conies pride of blood
or racial ancestry. A Stewart, a Douglas, or a
McGregor may point with pride to those ancestors
wTho bore the same name, but he has an added feel-
ing of pride when he remembers that he is a son of
Old Caledonia.

We of America, who are descended from the
original settlers, may or may not be proud of our
Anglo-Saxon or Dutch origin. We are all Amer-
icans in name, but the old "blood will tell.' The
Declaration of Independence, so far as a pronun-
ciamento could do so, made British rebels into Amer-
ican patriots by pen strokes. Eight years of war,
full of death and destruction, were required before
the patent of American birthright wras granted. In
1785, Britons in blood were transformed into Amer-
icans in name. Now we have Americans in name
and the blood of all the nations of Europe and the
Orient, for these countries have sent us millions of
their people to pass through the process of polit-
ical transmutation. The naturalization laws have

HER ANCESTRY 3

taken the place of battlefields, but for all practical
purposes the result is the same. True, we have
not taken by conquest the soil of these countries,
but we have taken the brain and the brawn which,
if kept at home, would have made that soil more
productive and valuable.

The genealogist is the scientist of ancestry. True,
he does not make the original records, but it is he
who searches them and constructs family trees.
These trees have many branches, and the ardent
student of genealogy has frequently found, after
an expenditure of much time and money, that
they point in as many different directions as their for-
est prototype. The genealogist follows promising
clues. Church registers, official records, and the
remembrances of oldest inhabitants carry him on
his way rejoicing until he comes to the end of the
branch and finds that certain descendants were of
John, and not of James as he knows himself to be.
Of the same family? Yes, but John and James
parted company in 1733 or thereabouts, John going
to the Massachusetts Bay Colonies, while James
was a follower, perhaps, of Oglethorpe and went
with him to Georgia. Each a strain of British
blood, grafted upon two widely separate branches
of the American tree.

All this by way of introduction. Our feet are
not yet on solid ground, speaking genealogically,
but when they are we shall deal with events, and
many forgotten facts in American history, from
1756 to 1836 - - eighty years, or more than man's
allotted span of life - will be brought to life. They
say the good die young* but an early death is not

4 THEODOSIA

an infallible certificate of goodness. The saying-
should read - - some are too good to die so young,
while others are not good enough to have lived so
long, or to have even lived at all.

But goodness is relative. What was good and
commendable once may be a misdemeanor or even a
crime to-day. All depends upon the time and the
manners of the time. One century is not a strictly-
to-be-followed teacher for another; nor should we,
of a later period, if we would be just, judge our pred-
ecessors by our present foot-rules of religion, moral-
ity, or politics.

Theodosia Burr was of English descent. Both
her father and mother were British-born subjects.
Her mother was the wife of a British officer, Colonel
Aaron Burr being her second husband. Theodosia
was born after the close of the Revolution, but be-
fore its results had been crystallized in the Constitu-
tion. We have said that her mother's first husband
was a British soldier; so was his brother during
the WTar of the Revolution, and in later years other
members of her first husband's family fought under
England's banner.

On the paternal side she was not a descendant
of the nobility or gentry or the military arm of Eng-
land, but of an honest husbandman, who sought
in America that wider field of strenuous endeavor
that was denied him in provincial England. The
one of whom we write had no ancestral connection
with crowns or coronets, but there was a coat-of-
arms which we will describe later.

First we will take up her paternal ancestors one
by one, commingled as they may be by marriage,

HER ANCESTRY 5

and follow them in their lives until we reach the
cradle in which lay, on June 23, 1783, Theodosia
Burr, daughter of Colonel Aaron Burr and Theo-
dosia Prevost Burr, who had been married on July
2 of the previous year.

What we are to write of our subject, and of the
men, women, and events connected therewith, will
be in the historical and not in the biographical vein.
The writer of biography is too prone to magnify
the virtues and minimize the faults of the subject
of his theme. Too many biographers are inclined
to imitate the Iliad and Odyssey, and for many
Plutarch's Lives is a model which they follow as
closely as may be. But to WTite the lives of heroes of
antiquity calls for a different pen-point than is needed
to record the doings of a modern man or woman.

The editor of Harper's Magazine (2) writes thus:

We do not ask of these masters that they shall have the striking
eminence of the greatest writers of the past. The conditions of that
kind of eminence do not exist in the present. It is enough in this
more level world we live in, that the servant should be as the master,
on the gospel and democratic principle that mastery is service.

Our writers are making a new literature, especially in a new prose
literature, which, if not more eminent than that of the past, yet is in
advance of it in the line of evolutionary tendencies. It has widened
and deepened the currents of human sympathy, and enlarged the scope
of a rational appreciation of the truths of life, and it has done this
without any dependence upon the devices, whether contrived or ready
at hand, which helped an older literature to a more imposing grandeur.
In the simplest way, without gloss or pretence, it meets the demands
of a deeply cultivated sensibility. In a word, it serves.

The influences which should control the historian
in his work are well stated in the introduction to
Melvin's Journal (3) :

6 THEODOSIA

No better rule for the writing of a history has ever been laid down,
or one that would be better worth adopting by historians, with their
best efforts to strictly follow, than that one which was enunciated, not
very long ago, by our venerated pontiff, Leo XIII, relative to some
proposed publication from the Vatican archives. Said he: "The first
law of history is not to dare to tell a lie, the second not to fear to tell
the truth; besides, let the historian be beyond all suspicion of favoring
or hating anyone whomsoever."

Had this excellent rule been always followed in the past, the world
might possibly have been spared some volumes long accepted as
authority. But with no motives of disparagement, and sensible that
many eminent writers have published as much truth as that portion
of the world which they addressed was willing to receive, this brief
summary of historical research is offered as a contribution to the
literature regarding one event in the Revolutionary War.

In other words, that a plain, unvarnished recital
of the truth is more potent with the reader of the
present day than the grandiloquent periods and
oftentimes fulsome eulogy indulged in by many
biographers and historians.

Much of the information contained hereinafter,
relating to the Burr Family, is condensed from a
voluminous work containing a genealogical record
of the family from 1193 to 1891, by Charles Burr
Todd (4).

Between the years 1630 and 1640, three Puritans

-heads of families- -set sail for the New World.
The first of these to arrive was Jehu Burr. He
came in 1630, with Winthrop, and settled in Rox-
bury, Massachusetts. He accompanied William
Pynchon, the founder of Springfield, Massachusetts,
and eventually settled in Fairfield, Connecticut.
The second to arrive was Benjamin Burr, one of
the founders of the city of Hartford, Connecticut,
in 1635. The third in point of immigration was

HER ANCESTRY 7

the Reverend Jonathan Burr, founder of the Dor-
chester branch, who arrived in Massachusetts in
1639. The fourth, or New Jersey branch, was
founded in 1681, by Henry Burr, a wealthy Quaker
and an associate of William Penn. The descend-
ants of Jehu and Benjamin Burr are found prin-
cipally in Connecticut and New York, although
they are quite numerous in Illinois and Iowa. The
descendants of Jonathan Burr are located in nearly
every State in the Union, although they are most
numerous in Maine and Massachusetts. The de-
scendants of Henry Burr settled largely in New
Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania.

Mr. Todd's work covers 535 large octavo pages,
and it is manifestly impossible to give more than a
slight summary of the valuable genealogical infor-
mation that it contains. In a succeeding volume
of this work, entitled "A Century Later," an abstract
will be made of the information contained therein,
with a view of showing the wide range of professions
and occupations in which the descendants of the
original settlers by the name of Burr have engaged,
and also their wide distribution throughout the
States of the Union and even foreign countries.

Aaron Burr was of the fifth generation from Jehu
Burr, and the 137th of Jehu Burr's known descend-
ants. Theodosia, the daughter of Colonel Aaron
Burr, and the subject of this volume, was of the
sixth generation from Jehu Burr and the 276th of
his known descendants.

A careful examination of the volume discloses
the fact that of the army of descendants of the four
original settlers by the name of Burr, twenty-two

8 THEODOSIA

have been named Aaron; eleven of these belonged
to the Connecticut branch, seven to the Hartford,
one to the Dorchester, and three to the New Jersey.
One of the female descendants was named Aarona.
It is a somewhat peculiar coincidence that two of
the female descendants married men by the name
of Hamilton - - one being named Alexander Ham-
ilton and the other William Hamilton. Another
fact is particularly worthy of notice. The only
women connected with the Burr family, from the
earliest date to the present, who have borne the
name Theodosia were Mrs. Theodosia Prevost
Burr, the wife of Colonel Aaron Burr, and her
daughter, Theodosia Burr Alston. It seems strange
indeed that no member of the Burr family has ever
named a daughter Theodosia.

The first man, Adam, is said to have been named
from the substance of which he was formed - - red
earth, and, quite naturally, he in turn gave to his
children names suggested by the substances or ob-
jects sensible to his touch or vision. The same plan,
as is well known, was followed by the North Amer-
ican Indians. The Romans are said to have first
dignified the individual by the application of two
or more names. Many of the old English surnames
admit of an easy explanation. Some are derived
from the occupation, as Farmer, Shepherd, Walker,
etc. A large class is derived from mental and
physical peculiarities, such as Short, Keene, Long,
etc.; others from colors, such as Black, White,
Green, etc.; some from birds, as Swan, Drake,
Swallow, Partridge, Hawk, etc.; and others from
the names of animals, as Wolfe, Lamb, Lyon, Hogg,

HER ANCESTRY 9

Fox, etc. Many names have been formed by the
affixing of the word 'son' to the Christian name of
the father; as, for instance, Jackson, Johnson,
Williamson, etc. Probably the most fertile basis
of the English nomenclature as regards persons has
been derived from the names of places. It is stated
that there is scarcely a village in Normandy which
has not surnamed some family in England, and in
this list of families, composed from Normandy,
Bretagne, and the Netherlands, is found the name
of Burr - - anciently and properly written Beur.
At one time it was written Buer, and pronounced
Bure, something like the modern French word
'Beurre' (butter), but the Anglo-Saxons elim-
inated the *e': and added a final "r," giving the
name to us in its present form. The name is,
undoubtedly, of German origin, although before
it was transplanted to this country it had been
known for five centuries in England. It is not very
common there, but numbers among its members
several families of the nobility.

Mr. Todd's work supplies the following informa-
tion in regard to the coat-of-arms of the Burr
family :

From Walford's "County Families of the United Kingdom" we
extract the following:

" Daniel Higford Davall Burr, eldest son of Lieut. General Daniel
Burr, by his second wife Mary, daughter and heir of James Davis,
Esq., of Chepston, Co. Monmouth, born in 1811, married 1839
Anne Margaretta, only daughter of the late Capt. Edward Scobell,
R. N., and has issue.

" Mr. Burr was educated at Eton and Christ Church, Oxford, is a
Magistrate for Co. Gloucester, and a J. P. and Q. L. for Berks and
Co. Hereford. Lord of the manor of Aldermaston, and patron of two

10 THEODOSIA

livings; he was M. P. for Hereford 1837-48. This family was formerly
seated in Herefordshire, and Mr. Burr purchased Aldermaston from
the Congreves in 1847."

Beside this there are several families of Burrs seated in Essex Co.
at Ramsay, Dover Court, and Wrabnese. Three coats-of-arms are
found in the family: One is in the possession of Mr. Henry T. Burr
of Boston, a member of the Dorchester branch; a second is owned
by Miss Hawley of Bridgeport, Conn., a member of the Fairfield
branch, and on comparing the two it was found that they were alike
in every particular - - a fact which points to a common origin for
those two branches at least; the third is in the possession of Mrs.
Detheridge of Washington, Va., and was given to her grandfather
by his cousin, Col. Aaron Burr, soon after the latter 's return from
England in 1812.

The coat-of-arms is from the College of Arms,
England. The blazon is- -Ermine, on a1 chief
indented sable, two lions rampant, or. The motto
is: Virtus honoris janua, which freely translated
means, "Virtue is the key of honor." Another
reading warranted by the language, and probably
more literal, is, "Manliness is the door of honor."
The name given in connection with the coat-of-
arms is spelled Burre, another copy of which is in
the possession of Mrs. Julia Eliza Shetland, who has
written a novel, upon the cover and title-page of
which the Burre coat-of-arms is given with the same
motto - • Virtus honoris janua.

The Burr Coat of Arms.

*

CHAPTER II

REVEREND TIMOTHY EDWARDS

WE can often make haste forwards by pro-
gressing backwards. Let us do so now to
avoid mystification of the reader. Theodosia's
grandfather was the Rev. Aaron Burr. Her
great-grandfather was the Rev. Jonathan Edwards,
a world- wide known man. Her great-great-grand-
father was the Rev. Timothy Edwards, who
married Esther, a daughter of the Rev. Solomon
Stoddard, of Northampton, Mass. If religion and
virtue are transmittible qualities, Theodosia must
have inherited a goodly share.

It is often said that the son was a greater man
than his father. Jonathan Edwards had a good
opinion of his parents. In his diary he wrote: 'I
now plainly perceive what great obligations I am
under to love and honor my parents. I have good
reason to believe that their counsel and education
have been my making, notwithstanding at the time
of it it seemed to do me little good.'1

On October 5, 1903, exercises were held at South
Windsor, Conn., in commemoration of the birth-
day of Jonathan Edwards, two hundred years be-
fore. He was acclaimed .a a great theologian,
evangelist, moralist, and metaphysician; but the
Rev. C. A. Jaquith, pastor of the First Congrega-

11

12 THEODOSIA

tional Church at South Windsor, Conn., in his
address of welcome said: 'Much as some may wish
to trace the greatness of Jonathan Edwards to the
Stoddards, I believe that Timothy Edwards was a
greater man than most historians have understood.
Those who heard both Jonathan and his father,
called the father the more learned and animated."

The Rev. Timothy Edwards was the father of eleven
children, Jonathan being the fifth child and only son.
The girls, ten in number, were often referred to by
their father as his "sixty feet of daughters.'1

The period from 1660 to 1735 witnessed the "Pu-
ritan decline." The people were not so good in
those days as they had been when Elder Brewster
and Governor Winthrop were leading spirits. In
1679 a "Reforming Synod met at Boston and called
the attention of the Great and General Court to
the necessity of reformation as regarded no less
than thirteen evils; among these were pride, neglect
of divine worship, profanity, Sabbath-breaking, irre-
ligion in the home, intemperance (including the
heathenish and idolatrous practice of health-drink-
ing), licentiousness, inordinate affection for the world,
and great lack of public spirit." If these allega-
tions were true, our forefathers had certainly made
great progress backwards in less than sixty years
from the landing at Plymouth.

The Rev. Cotton Mather thought that the people
had forgotten their errand into the wilderness,
although he partially solaced himself with the belief
that 'there was still more of true religion and a
larger number of the strictest saints in this country
than in any other."

HER GREAT-GREAT-GRANDFATHER 13

What was called the 'Halfway Covenant' was
considered largely responsible for the 'Puritan
decline." When Jonathan Edwards entered his
ministry at Northampton, Prof. Samuel Simpson,
Ph.D., of the Hartford, Conn., Theological Sem-
inary, says: "The tone of public morals was shock-
ingly low. Intemperance and other forms of vice
abounded, especially among the young. ': The Rev.
Solomon Stoddard, Theodosia's great-great-grand-
father, advocated the principles of the "Halfway
Covenant" as early as 1679. It had been in opera-
tion for twenty years when young Jonathan Edwards
went to Northampton as assistant to his grand-
father, and Jonathan practised it for twenty years
longer. Professor Simpson says: The effect of
the measure was to throw the church doors wide
open. Unregenerate persons, whose lives were not
scandalous, were invited to partake of the Lord's
Supper as a 'converting ordinance.' The church
was soon filled with men and women who made no
pretension to spiritual renewal.'

The parish of which Timothy Edwards was pastor
was called "Windsor Farmes,' and he officiated
for nearly sixty years. His home was a low, two-
story house, which stood in what is now the town
of South Windsor, on a slight eminence on the east-
ern bank of the Connecticut River. The property
was given to him by his father, Richard Edwards,
who was a Hartford merchant and not in the priestly
line. Richard's father was William Edwards, who
came over from London about 1640 and engaged
in mercantile business.

And now Professor Simpson brings forth a new

14 THEODOSIA

line of defence for Theodosia's father in these words:
"The grandmother of Jonathan Edwards, the first
wife of Richard Edwards of Hartford, was Eliza-
beth Tu thill (Tuttle), in whose veins the taint of
insanity evidently flowed, which accounts for the
strange outcroppings of depravity which from time
to time have appeared in the Edwards race, the
most notable instance of which is the case of his (the
Rev. Jonathan's) grandson, Aaron Burr.'' Strange
that so astute a lawyer as Colonel Burr did not avail
himself of a plea of inherited mania in the notable
trial at Richmond, Virginia.

So much is known and has been written about
the Edwardses, that it is interesting to learn more
of Solomon Stoddard, Theodosia's maternal great-
great-grandfather. He was the son of Anthony
Stoddard, who came from London, England, to
Boston, Mass., in 1609, was admitted a free man
in 1640, and was for twenty-five years a represent-
ative to the Great and General Court. Young
Solomon was graduated from Harvard College in
1662; he was its first librarian, and afterwards be-
came minister of the church at Northampton, in
which town his descendants are still living. One
of his descendants, Francis Hovey Stoddard, has
been Professor of English Literature in New York
University since 1888, residing in New York City (5).

From an article by Mrs. H. M. Plunkett we copy,
by permission, the following (6) :

On November 6, 1694, Rev. Timothy Edwards, who had been
chosen to become the pastor of a newly formed church at East Windsor,
Conn. - - sometimes known as Windsor Farms - - was married in
Northampton, Mass., to Miss Esther Stoddard, daughter of the minister

HER GREAT-GREAT-GRANDFATHER 15

of that town. There is no record of how the lady looked, nor of what
she wore on the occasion, the chronicles of that time only noting the
fact that Miss Stoddard had enjoyed superior advantages for educa-
tion, having been sent to Boston for that purpose. The husband was
twenty -four; the bride twenty-two. All New England looked to
Harvard College at that time to stamp the hall-mark on ability, and
no doubt Miss Esther was duly proud of the fact that the man of her
choice had been endowed with the degree of Bachelor of Arts in the
morning, and that of Master of Arts in the afternoon of the same
day, an unprecedented act on the part of the college, and a tribute to
the unsurpassed scholarship of Mr. Edwards - - a scholarship that we
shall see was always kept bright and never allowed to lapse into desue-
tude during a long life.

The wedding journey of the couple, including some family visits,
lasted eight days, when they arrived in the town where he was to be
pastor for sixty-three years, and where she was to live a beautiful and
influential life as his helper, and where, even after her husband's
death, it is recorded that she was beloved for her Christian helpfulness
in doing all that she could to increase the influence of his successor.
Very few parishes could, in that primitive time, pay a salary adequate
to support a minister, without some extraneous assistance - - this
assistance often taking the form of a farm. In Mr. Edwards' case,
his father, who was a successful merchant of Hartford, made him the
free gift of a farm and built him a house on it, but as this was not
yet completed, the newly married pair occupied at first temporary
quarters elsewhere. At length it was done and it was an uncommonly
fine and really "advanced" house, for the period. It stood with its
long front to the street, the bare architectural blankness of this front
being broken at the centre by a projection which formed a porch about
the front door on the first story, and in the second, made a room of
closet-like proportions, but called the "study" -within the walls of
which were produced for sixty-three years the sermons that formed
the chief intellectual pabulum of that people, outside the Bible. Few
and small were the windows, made of tiny diamond panes set in lead,
eloquent to the costliness of glass. Our ancestors held the theory
that an air-space under a house made it cold, so this house had no
visible under-pinning, but seemed planted in the soil. The second
story projected beyond the first, tradition has it, so as to be able to
shoot Indian marauders, of which, in this vicinity, there were too

16 THEODOSIA

many for the comfort of the intruding pale-faces. The roof was
steep — made of "rived" (shrunken) shingles, which were never
changed, and still serviceable one hundred and eighteen years after-
ward, when the house was taken down. The stepping-stone was
utilized again by the man who built upon its site, but in 1834 it was
bought from him and made the corner-stone of the Theological Insti-
tute of Connecticut. The house had some very superior woodwork on
the inside, one feature of which was a bench, running round three sides
of one of the rooms, and which has an important relation to our theme.

As New England parishes were rated, this of East Windsor was
esteemed one of the best. Nearly every parishioner was a farmer;
even the owner of the only grist-mill and the store-keeper had their
farms. An account-book belonging to a deacon, and the Rev. Mr.
Edwards' "rate-book" (really the parish record) are still extant, and
as the latter gentleman had a habit of making quaint and piquant
memoranda in connection with some of the items of cash or produce
paid to him, they throw a flood of light on the manners, customs, and
ideas of the time. Payments were faithfully, but not always promptly,
made, and the minister found it impossible to live on his salary without
adding the labor of a tutor; hence he always had young men fitting
for college in his family, and his rate-book shows that young men who
could not spare time in the day came to him in the evenings to be
instructed in penmanship.

The meeting-house was not completed till three years after Mr.
Edwards' marriage — the congregation meanwhile assembling in a
barn - - and although he exercised every function of the Congregational
priesthood, he was not formally ordained until the two ceremonies
of dedicating the church and the complete induction of the pastor,
called ordination, could be combined in one joyful occasion. It oc-
curred in 1698. Previous to this his house had been completed, and
two of the young women, whose completed circle is ten, had appeared
on this earthly scene. This double ceremonial was the happy goal
towards which both pastor and people had been looking for many years,
and accustomed as we are to think of those early Puritans as leading
austere and joyless lives, it is a surprise to learn that the religious cere-
monies were followed by an Ordination Ball in the minister's house —
one of the invitations in the young pastor's handwriting, bearing his
autograph, being still in existence.

A careful list of "provisions laide in at the house of Mr. Edwards for

Where Jonathan Edwards way born, at Windsor

Farmes, Conn.

HER GREAT-GREAT-GRANDFATHER 17

his ordination," is still extant in the account-book of his accurate
deacon. Of actual viands sent, there were 88 pounds of "beefe,"
14 of mutton, 18 of veal; souger, 10 pounds; wheat, meal, cheese, butter,
eggs, salt, pepper, sidar, rum, malt, hops, wine, and money distinctly
called "wine-money," and also spice-money, while many gave actual
cash. We feel justified in believing that " everybody who was anybody '
was invited to partake of this generous feast, and we are certain that
that parish had at least one "jolly good time" in its life.

Mrs. Edwards had a high ideal of the loftiness of the pastor's voca-
tion, and, that her husband might be free to fulfil its duties, took upon
herself the burden of their temporalities — so that her gifted and
honored spouse could educate his men, and care for the souls of his
parishioners, unhampered by petty cares. When there was a ques-
tion of how many and what hides the tanner ought to return to him,
he says, "My wife knows"; and other references to her show that she
"looked to the ways of her household," notwithstanding the superior
Boston education she had received. Of her eleven children, the fifth
was a son — the celebrated and much-maligned Jonathan Edwards.
The rest were daughters, the youngest born when the oldest was twenty-
two. It was a busy and no doubt a lively household, and it is pleas-
ant to read that "From the house the land sloped toward the east to
a brook that flowed at the foot of a steeper hill, which was then crowned
with a beautiful forest of primeval trees. . . . To this spot Mr. Ed-
wards was accustomed to go for seclusion, and there his son Jonathan
built the booth wherein he held soul-inspiring converse with God."
We can imagine him escaping in desperation from such a girls '-nest
as the house must have been to this precursor of the modern "den."

As the minds of the ten daughters began to unfold, and as there were
no schools to send them to, the father undertook to train them him-
self. He did not stop to inquire whether co-educating his girls right
along with the fitting-for-college students would lead to atrophy of
the muscles, or of the affections, but just did it. He had a school,
with a high standard, beneath his own roof. Harvard and Yale Col-
leges accepted "Mr. Edwards' students" without examination; and
that he held his girls to the same standard is proved by the fact that
when called away from home, as he often was in his capacity of emi-
nent divine, he left the instruction in Latin and Greek to his daughters,
and particularly directed that they shall not fail to hear the recitations
of the young men, in the letters that he sends back. In his account-

18 THEODOSIA

book he records every day's instruction to these young men, which
was paid for at the rate of three shillings a week, and makes note of
the time given to them by his daughters, for we may be sure that the
money value of these services by the co-educated ten was not ignored
by them. Among the credits in his account-book is a memorandum of a
shilling paid by one North to my daughter Mary for covering a fan, and
there are other similar entries. That a knowledge of Latin and Greek
had not eradicated the fondness for distinctively feminine work is shown
by the fact that specimens of Miss Mary's embroidery — a scarf, an
apron, and a pair of slippers — now owned by the Connecticut Histori-
cal Society — can to-day be seen in the Hartford Athenaeum.

For this work the lady first spun and wove the linen cloth of the
foundation and created the wools, discovering the dyes with which to
color them in the flowers and leaves and barks and nuts of the trees.
She could conventionalize the flowers of the field; and, as Mr. Edwards
credits Deacon Rockwell, who was a worker in wood, with two pairs
of "heels," we can be almost sure they were to be attached to Miss
Mary's embroidered slippers; only lately a pair of needle-pointed
slippers, with heels two and a quarter inches high, contemporaneous
with these, have been found in the vicinity. So even these co-educated
women had their little weaknesses and did not wear hygienic shoes ; and
while we are taught to believe that the simple dietetics of that day gave
people sounder teeth than ours, there are frequent credits to Deacon
Skinner for drawing a tooth for Esther — or Abigail — or Lucy.

The Rev. Timothy Edwards (7)

was a man of erudition, and watched with solicitous anxiety over his
only son, of whom he speaks in his letters as "the boy Jonathan,"
not an inapt designation when we recall the fact that he was the only
son among ten sisters who grew to womanhood, and who are face-
tiously called by Timothy Edwards, their father, his "sixty feet of
daughters." The law of heredity must have largely influenced the
formation of Edwards' character. The ancestral motto of his migra-
tory ancestor had been: "Everything with God, nothing without God."

In the Hartford Courant of Monday, October 5,
1903, under the heading "Letters from Noted
People," was one from Mrs. Solomon Stoddard,
written to her daughter, the wife of the Rev. Tim-

HER GREAT-GREAT-GRANDFATHER 19

othy Edwards of East Windsor, Conn., congratu-
lating her on the birth of her son Jonathan, who
afterwards became the Rev. Jonathan Edwards.

The rate-book of the Rev. Timothy Edwards has
been previously referred to. In 1735 he makes
comparisons between the cost of living then and in
1694, which was the period of his settlement. He
says that rum was sold in Hartford in former years
for 2 shillings for the single gallon, and now he hears
it is 18 shillings, which leads him to the conclusion
that rum is nine times as dear as when he first
settled among them. In considering the cost of
labor, he says: "Negro was formerly 90 pounds;
my Negro was; now 200 pounds for a Negro wo-
man.'5 This entry shows conclusively that it was
not considered inappropriate, in those days, for a
clergyman to buy a human being; and if public
sentiment countenanced the purchase of a negro,
it probably did not object to his sale.

Mr. Edwards charged the son of the widow of
Samuel Grant, Jr., as follows: 'For a pint of rum
and a few squoses (lemons), 1 shilling, 3 pence.
For making my cloes and beveridge, 1 pound, 18
shillings, and 3 pence.'1

The following is from a private letter, dated
October 22, 1903 (8).

Volume I, of "Ancient Windsor, Connecticut," by Stiles, page 556,
contains a picture of the Timothy Edwards house. It is hard to be-
lieve that it was there he raised his ten tall daughters - - one of whom,
Elizabeth, was my ancestor - - and his illustrious son Jonathan. In
Mrs. Plunkett's "Ten Co-educated Girls Two Hundred Years Ago,"
you will find an invitation to "my daughter Betty's wedding." That
Betty was my ancestor, Elizabeth. When I was in South Windsor,
I cut some pieces of stone from the old foundation of the house. There

20 THEODOSIA

is a picture of it in a recent number of the "Congregationalist." I am
interested in your work because Theodosia Burr was my third cousin,
once removed, and everything that concerns her or her father is inter-
esting to me. I enclose my genealogy back to Timothy Edwards. I
have a scrap book which I call my "We and Us Book." In it I put
nothing except from the pen of a person to whom I can trace a blood
relationship, and articles about such relatives. Are you aware that I
am directly descended from Cedric, the first of the West Saxon kings.
Back through Alfred the Great, I am of the 43rd generation. It
comes down to us through William Tuttle, whose daughter Elizabeth
married Richard Edwards, father of Rev. Timothy Edwards. I have
reason to be proud of Alfred, but I don't care much for some of the
others. Do you know Ednah Proctor (Mrs. Henry Hayes) ? She
is the daughter of Colonel Isaac Edwards Clarke, and the sister of
John Proctor Clarke, Justice of the Supreme Court of New York.
She is a writer of some note and I wish to know how she is connected
with the Edwardses and Clarkes. The last work I have seen of hers is a
prize story published in the New York Herald, entitled "A Tale of
the Jumel Mansion, " and has, of course, for one of its characters Aaron
Burr, but does not deal at all or refer to his marriage with Madame
Jumel.

Elizabeth Edwards (sister and brother) Jonathan Edwards
married

Jabez Huntington

Jerusha Huntington (first cousins) Esther Edwards

married married

Dr. John Clarke Pres't Aaron Burr

Dr. Thaddeus Clarke (second cousins) Aaron Burr

Joseph B. Clarke (third cousins) Theodosia Burr

Harriette Clarke Sprague, third cousin once removed to Theodosia
Burr.

We have now placed before the reader the few
historical facts which are extant concerning Tim-
othy Edwards and Solomon Stoddard, the great-
great-grandfathers of Theodosia. Our next step
will be a forward one, covering a generation or more.

CHAPTER III

THE REVEREND JONATHAN EDWARDS

FEW clergymen, or even men, have had more
written about them than the subject of this
chapter. That he was the maternal great-grand-
father of Theodosia demands that his life and char-
acter should receive ample treatment in this volume.
It is not with the chronology of his life that we are
principally interested. It is with what he was and
what he did more than with when he did it. His
biographers, following tradition and custom, have
said the same things over and over again, and usu-
ally in the same way. Scores of books have been
examined, and in but few of them has there been
found any novelty or variety in expression. In
preparing this chapter, the rule has been followed
to incorporate what was salient in many, rather than
to make too copious extracts from one authority.

The following biography of Mr. Edwards was
published about six years after his death. Those
that have appeared since, although written in accord-
ance with the predilections of the different authors,
have contained but little additional in the way of
fact. For that reason it is thought best to rely upon
the earliest published work (9).

Mr. Jonathan Edwards was born October 5, 1703, at Windsor, a
town in Connecticut. His father was the Rev. Mr. Timothy Edwards,

21

THEODOSIA

minister of the gospel on the East side of the Connecticut River, in
Windsor. He began to reside and preach at Windsor in November,
1694, but was not ordained till July, 1698. He died Jan. 27, 1758,
in the 89th year of his age, about two months before the death of his
son Jonathan. He was in the work of the ministry above 59 years.
From his first beginning to reside and preach there, to his death, are
above 63 years, and he was able to attend to the work of the ministry
and preach constantly till within a few years before his death. . . .
On the 6th of November, 1694, he was married to Miss Esther Stod-
dard, daughter of the late famous Mr. Solomon Stoddard of North-
ampton. They had 11 children, all of whom lived to adult years, ten
of whom were daughters, and one son named Jonathan.

Mr. Jonathan Edwards entered Yale College in 1716, and received
the degree of Bachelor of Arts in September, 1720, a little before he
was 17 years old. He had the character of a sober youth, and a
good scholar while he was a member of the College. In his second
year at College, and thirteenth of his age, he read Locke on the Human
Understanding, with great delight and profit. His uncommon genius,
by which he was, as it were by Nature, formed for closeness of thought
and deep penetration, now began to exercise and discover itself.
Taking that book into his hand upon some occasion not long before
his death, he said to some of his select friends who were then with
him, that he was beyond expression entertained and pleased with it
when he read it in his youth at college; that he was as much engaged,
and had more satisfaction and pleasure in studying it, than the most
greedy miser in gathering up handfuls of silver and gold from some
new discovered treasure.

Though he made good proficiency in all the arts and sciences, and
had an uncommon taste for natural philosophy, which he cultivated
to the end of his life with that justness and accuracy of thought which
was almost peculiar to him; yet moral philosophy or divinity was his
favorite study, and in this he early made great progress.

He lived at college near two years after he took his first degree,
designing and preparing for the work of the ministry, after which,
having passed the pre-requisite trials, he was licensed to preach the
gospel as a candidate. And being pitched upon and applied to by a
number of ministers in New England, who were entrusted to act in
behalf of the Presbyterians at New York, as a fit person to be sent to
them, he complied with their request and went to New York the be-

Rev. Jonathan Kdxvanls.

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 23

ginning of August, 1722, and preached there to very good acceptance
about eight months. But by reason of the smallness of that society,
and some special difficulties that attended it, he did not think they
were in a capacity to settle a minister, with a rational prospect of
answering the good ends proposed. He therefore left them the next
spring, and retired to his father's house, where he spent the summer
in close study.

In September, 1723, he received his degree of Master of Arts,
about which time he had invitations from several congregations to
come among them in order to settle in the work of the ministry; but
being chosen tutor of Yale College the next spring, in the year 1724,
being in the 21st year of his age, he retired to the college and attended
the business of tutor there about two years.

While he was in this place he was applied to by the people at
Northampton, with an invitation to come and settle in the work of the
ministry there, with his grandfather Stoddard, who, by reason of his
great age, stood in need of assistance. He therefore resigned his
tutorship in September 1726, and accepted of their invitation; and
was ordained in the work of the ministry at Northampton, colleague
with his grandfather Stoddard, February 15, 1727, in the twenty-fourth
year of his age, where he continued in the work of the ministry till
June 22, 1750, twenty-three years and four months.

The Rev. Theodore D wight Woolsey, D.D.,
LL.D., former President of Yale College, thus refers
to the early life of Mr. Edwards (10) :

He was a Puritan boy, brought up in the simple manners of a new
country parish and in the strict morals of a Puritan minister's family,
unacquainted with temptation, and having no struggles to pass through
such as appear in the history of Augustine, Luther, and some others
of the greater lights of the Christian Church. He records his trouble
in regard to his religious history in these words: "The chief thing that
now makes me in any measure to question my good estate is my not
having experienced conversion in those particular steps wherein the
people of New England, and anciently the dissenters of Old England,
used to experience it. Wherefore now resolved never to leave searching
till I have satisfactorily found out the very bottom and foundation —
the real reason why they used to be converted in those steps."

24 THEODOSIA

The Rev. Louis Albert Banks, D.D. (11), supplies
some facts and incidents in the life of Mr. Edwards
not found in other authorities. He states that the
Edwards family was of Welsh extraction.

Although in the preceding chapter strong testi-
mony was given as to the ability of Timothy Ed-
wards, Professor Allen, in his biography of Jonathan
Edwards, contends that it was chiefly to his mother
that Jonathan was indebted for his intellectual
inheritance :

She had received a superior education in Boston and is described
as "tall, dignified, and commanding in appearance, affable and gentle
in her manner, and regarded as surpassing her husband in native
vigor and understanding."

Jonathan Edwards was the fifth child and only son in a family of
eleven children. He was educated with his sisters, the older daughters
assisting the father in the superintendence of his studies. A few of
his letters remain, written while he was a boy, but they disclose little
of his character. He appears as docile and receptive, an affectionate
and sensitive nature, responding quickly and very deeply to the in-
fluences of his childhood. He was interested in his studies, ambitious
to excel, and particularly a keen observer of the mysteries of the out-
ward world and eager to discern its laws. Everything points to him
as a child of rare intellectual precocity. When not more than twelve
years old, he wrote a letter in a bantering style, refuting the idea of
the materiality of the soul. At about the same age he wrote an elabo-
rate and instructive account of the habits of the field spider, based
upon his own observation.

Returning to his father's house after two years at New Haven,
following his graduation, in order to carry on his theologian studies,
he was soon after made a tutor in Yale College, an office which he held
for two years (1724-1726), helping to overcome the shock to the College
and the community caused by the secession of its rector, Mr. Cutler,
Mr. Johnson, one of its tutors, and others, to the Episcopal Church.
He was one of the pillar tutors and the glory of the College at this
critical period. His tutorial renown was great and excellent. He

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 25

filled and sustained his office with great ability, dignity, and honor.
For the honor of literature these things ought not to be forgotten.

From 1720 to 1726, from the age of seventeen to the age of twenty-
three, runs the period during which he wrote his Resolutions and the
greater part of his religious diary. His biographer (Dr. Sereno E.
D wight) says: "These are no ordinary Resolutions, and this is no
common diary. It is, when we read them, as though we stood behind
the veil witnessing the evolution of a great soul. Like Luther, he
appears as in search for some high end of whose nature he is not
clearly conscious. But he will be content with nothing but the highest
result which it is open to man to achieve or for God of his grace to
impart. Referring to this period of his life, some twenty years later,
he remarks : ' I made the seeking of salvation the main business of my
life.'"

Referring to the Rev. Solomon Stoddard, Mr.
Edwards' grandfather, Mr. Banks says:

Mr. Stoddard lived in the days when, as Hutchinson remarks,
"the elders continued to be consulted in every affair of importance.
The share they held in temporal affairs added to the weight they had
acquired from their spiritual employments, and now they were in high
esteem." But for Mr. Stoddard there was felt something more than
the usual respect and veneration. 'The officers and leaders of North-
ampton," says Edwards, "imitated his manners, which were dogmatic,
and thought it an excellency to be like him. Many of the people,"
he adds, "esteemed all his sayings as oracles, and looked upon him
almost as a sort of deity." The Indians of the neighborhood, inter-
preting this admiration in their own way, spoke of Mr. Stoddard as
"the Englishman's God."

Edwards was, at the time of the opening of his pastorate at North-
ampton, twenty-four years of age. He was very tall, being upwards
of six feet in height, slenderly built, and of a very serious and grave
manner. His face was of a feminine cast, implying at once a capacity
for both sweetness and severity - - the Johannine type of countenance,
we should say, just as his spirit is that of St. John, rather than that of
Peter or of Paul. It is a face which bespeaks a delicate and nervous
organization.

It would seem that while at college Mr. Edwards

26 THEODOSIA

passed through a conflict of feeling somewhat sim-
ilar to that endured by his grandson, Colonel Aaron
Burr, although with a different result

While in the senior class his second awakening took place, which
was speedily followed by a second relapse. "In process of time,"
he writes, "my convictions and reflections wore off, and I entirely
lost all those affections and delights, and left off secret prayer, at least
as to any constant performance of it, and returned like a dog to his
vomit, and went on in the ways of sin. Indeed, I was at times very
uneasy, especially towards the latter part of my time in college, when
it pleased God to seize me with a pleurisy, in which be brought me nigh
unto the grave and shook me over the pit of hell; and yet it was not
long after my recovery before I fell again into my old ways of sin."

At seventeen he graduated with great reputation for both knowl-
edge and wisdom, and he dates his final and entire conversion
shortly after. Its chief symptom he thus describes: "From my
childhood up my mind had been full of objections against the doctrine
of God's sovereignty, choosing whom he would to eternal life, and
hardening whom he pleased, leaving them eternally to perish and be
everlastingly tormented in hell. It used to appear like a horrible
doctrine to me; but I remember the time very well when I seemed to
be convinced and fully satisfied as to the sovereignty of God, and his
justice in thus eternally disposing of men according to his sovereign
pleasure. And there has been a wonderful alteration in my mind
with respect to the doctrine of God's sovereignty from that day to
this, so that I scarce ever have found so much as the rising of an objec-
tion against it, in the most absolute sense, in God's showing mercy and
justice with respect to salvation and damnation, is what my mind seems
to rest assured of as much as of anything I see with my eyes; at least
it is so at times."

The example of the good man lives after him.
This fact is forcibly shown in an article written by
Edith A. Winship (13).

It was the spirit of the reformer and the purity of his nature that
brought trouble upon this successful preacher. His open criti-
cism of the habits and immoral reading of the young people in the

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 27

town involved many prominent families, and the consequent wrath
brought about his sudden and harsh dismissal from the church. An
ecclesiastical dispute contributed also to this action, and in this con-
troversy Edwards maintained a doctrine that soon became a vital
principle of the Puritan churches. Thus it happened that Jonathan
Edwards found himself, at the age of forty-seven, with no means of
support for his family of eight children. They were ostracized in
the town, but Mrs. Edwards was able to get a little money by taking
in work. Six months later Edwards took charge of a mission church
in the village of Stockbridge, numbering twelve white families and
one hundred and fifty Indian families. Indian wars were a reality
in 1750, and Stockbridge, in the Colony of Massachusetts, was on the
outskirts of civilization. Almost immediately Edwards set himself
to exposing and punishing men who misappropriated the Indian funds,
and he succeeded. He found abundant leisure here to write his
treatise on "The Freedom of the Will '; — a classic in metaphysics, and
one of the few great books in English theology. Through this and other
writings, the man who had been disgraced and banished more than
regained his ascendency; his former parishioners were repentant and
apologetic, and his reputation as a thinker and theologian grew apace.
Seven years he spent in seclusion and then he went to Princeton College
as its President. Scarcely twro months after, at the age of fifty-four,
he died. "From the days of Plato," said a writer in the Westminster
Review, " there has been no life of more simple and imposing grandeur
than his."

He had been a dominant figure in New England through many
years, and had left the imprint of his thought on the Puritan churches.
His writings long held supreme authority; and in Europe, as well as in
America, he was ranked among the great thinkers of the world. These
achievements alone might well make a man memorable; but they are
as nothing when compared with the power for good which he has exer-
cised through posterity. The theology of Jonathan Edwards may be
dead, and his books unread, but the man was greater than the theo-
logian. In leaving to his children, and his children's children, the
legacy that he gave, he did the best a man can do for the world.

After his dismissal from the church at Northampton, his future course
seemed dubious and uncertain. Mrs. Edwards realized that all in the
family wrho could work must bend their energies towards the support
of a large family - - but a way was opened for further usefulness.

28 THEODOSIA

The Indian mission at Stockbridge, a town about 60 miles from
Northampton, being vacant by the death of the late Rev. Mr. Sergeant,
the honored and reverend commissioners for Indian affairs in Boston,
who have the care and direction of it, applied to Mr. Edwards as the
most suitable person they could think of to intrust with that mission,
and he was at the same time invited to come there by the inhabitants
of Stockbridge. He decided to accept the invitation and was intro-
duced and affixed as missionary to the Indians there, by an ecclesias-
tical council called for that purpose August 8, 1751.

When Mr. Edwards first engaged in the mission, there was a hope-
ful prospect of its being extremely serviceable under his care and influ-
ence, not only to that tribe of Indians which was settled at Stockbridge,
but among the six nations. But on account of some differences of
opinion that took place among those who had the chief management
of affairs at Stockbridge, and also on account of a war breaking out
between England and France, this hopeful prospect came to nothing.

Mr. Edwards' labors were attended with no remarkable visible
success while at Stockbridge, though he performed the business of his
mission to the good acceptance of the inhabitants in general. However,
it proved a more quiet and, on many accounts, a more comfortable
situation than he was in before. His time was not so much taken up
with company as it was at Northampton, although many of his friends
made visits to him. And he was not brought into contact with other
churches as he was at Northampton. This was, probably, as useful
a period of his life as any, for during this time he wrote the two last
books that were published by him.

Again was he favored by fortune, or, as he would have termed it,
aided by the Hand of God. Once more was a way opened by death
for his further advancement.

On the 24th of September, 1757, the Rev. Mr. Aaron Burr, President
of the New Jersey College, died, and at the next meeting of the trustees
Mr. Edwards was chosen his successor, the news of which was quite
unexpected and not a little surprising to him. He looked on himself
in many respects so unqualified for that business, that he wondered
that gentlemen of so good judgment and so well acquainted with him, as
he knew some of the trustees were, should think of him for that place.

The reasons that he gave in a letter, written to the
board of trustees, were the following:

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 29

"I have a constitution in many respects peculiarly unhappy, at-
tended with flaccid solids, vapid, fizy, and scarce fluids, and a low
tide of spirits; often occasioning a kind of childish weakness and
contemptibleness of speech, presence, and demeanor; with a dis-
agreeable dulness and stiffness, much unfitting me for conversation,
but more especially for the government of a college. This poorness
of constitution makes me shrink at the thoughts of taking upon me,
in the decline of life, such a new and great business, attended with
such a multiplicity of cares, and requiring such a degree of activity,
alertness and spirit of government; especially as succeeding one so
remarkably well qualified in these respects, giving occasion to everyone
to remark the wide difference. I am also deficient in some parts of
learning, particularly in algebra, and the higher parts of mathematics,
and in the Greek classics, my Greek learning having been chiefly hi
the New Testament."

He determined to ask the advice of a number of gentlemen in the
ministry, on whose judgment and friendship he could rely, and to act
accordingly, who, upon his and his people's desire, met at Stockbridge,
January 4, 1758, and having heard Mr. Edwards' representation of
the matter, and what his people had to say by way of objection against
his removal, determined it was his duty to accept of the invitation to
the presidency of the college.

Accordingly, having had, by the application of the trustees of the
college, the consent of the commissioners to resign their mission, he
set off from Stockbridge for Princetown in January. He left his
family at Stockbridge not to be removed till spring. He had two
daughters at Princetown, Mrs. Burr, the widow of the late President
Burr, and his eldest daughter (I think it was Lucy) who was not
married.

While at Princetown, before his sickness, he preached in the college-
hall Sabbath after Sabbath, to the great acceptance of his hearers;
but did nothing as President, unless it was to give out some questions
in divinity to the senior class to be answered before him.

The History of Berkshire County, published in
1829, contains a sketch of Timothy Edwards, Colonel
Burr's uncle, and Rev. Jonathan Edwards, his
grandfather.

30 THEODOSIA

•

When Mr. Edwards was preaching in North-
ampton it was the most considerable town in the
Massachusetts Bay Colony outside of Boston.

It was settled in 1653, and was originally called
Nonatuck, after a tribe of Indians. It was created
a city in 1884. The city seal bears the motto:
"Justice, Charity, Education." The population of
the town in 1765 was 1285. At the time of the Revo-
lutionary War it had increased to 1790. At the
close of the Civil War the population was 7925,
which in 1905 had increased to 19,857.

The picture of the Edwards arms is said to have
been verified at the Heraldry Office in London. The
motto is : Sola nobilitas virtus, which may be trans-
lated: "Virtue the only nobility"; or, "Virtue alone
is excellence."

It will be noticed that the word "virtus' or "vir-
tue" is found both upon the Burr and the Edwards
coats-of-arms.

A correspondent (14), interested in the present
work, supplied a leaf from an old note-book belong-
ing to the Rev. Timothy Edwards containing an
allusion to his only son Jonathan, who had lost a
jack-knife given to him by his father.

Miss Little said, in her letter:

"The authenticity of the leaf seems to be undoubted, both from
internal evidence and because it belonged to my grandmother, who
was a granddaughter of Timothy Edwards, son of Jonathan."

The following account of his conversion, experi-
ences, and religious exercises was given by himself:

I have greatly longed of late for a broken heart and to lie low before
God. And when I asked for humility of God, I cannot bear the

m

' •$& * • ••' ^

-- -

.. ** A -

The Edwards Coat of Arms- - from "The
Edwards Memorial."

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 31

thoughts of being no more humble than other Christians. It seems
to me that though their degrees of humility may be suitable for them,
yet it would be a vile self-exaltation in me not to be the lowest in
humility of all mankind. Others speak of their longing to be humbled
to the dust. Though that may be a proper expression for them, I
always think for myself that I ought to be humbled down below hell.
'Tis an expression that has long been natural for me to use in prayer
to God. I ought to lie infinitely low before God. . . . And yet I am
greatly afflicted with a proud and self-righteous spirit, much more
sensibly than I used to be formerly. I see that serpent rising and
putting forth its head continually, everywhere, all around me. ... I
had at the same time a very affecting sense how meet and suitable it
was that God should govern the world and order all things according
to his own pleasure; and I rejoiced in it that God reigned, and that
His will was done.

As indicating his state of mind when in his twen-
tieth year, no better evidence could be given than
by the subjoined extracts from his private diary:

Wednesday, Jan. 2, 1723. There is no dependence upon myself.
It is to no purpose to resolve except we depend on the grace of God,
for if it were not for his mere grace, one might be a very good man one
day and a very wicked one the next.

Thursday, Jan. 10. I think I find myself much more sprightly
and healthy, both in body and mind, for my self-denial in eating,
drinking, and sleeping.

Saturday, Jan. 12. I can challenge no right in myself; I can
challenge no right in this understanding, this will, these affections that
are in me; neither have I any right to this body, or any of its members:
no right to this tongue, these hands, nor feet: no right to these senses,
these eyes, these ears, this smell or taste. I have given myself clear
away, and have not retained anything as my own. I have been to
God this morning and told him that I gave myself wholly to him. I
have given every power to him; so that for the future I will challenge
no right in myself.

Tuesday, Jan. 15. It seemed yesterday, the day before, and
Saturday that I should always retain the same resolutions to the same
height; but alas, how soon I do decay! O, how weak, how infirm,

32 THEODOSIA

how unable to do anything am I! What a poor, inconsistent, what a
miserable wretch without the assistance of God's spirit.

Saturday, Feb. 16. I do certainly know that I love holiness, such
as the gospel requires.

Saturday, March 2. O, how much pleasanter is humility than
pride! O, that God would fill me with exceeding great humility, and
that he would evermore keep me from all pride!

Monday morning, April 1. I think it best not to allow myself to
laugh at the faults, follies, and infirmities of others.

Saturday night, April 13. I could pray more heartily this night
for the forgiveness of my enemies than ever before.

Thursday, May 2. I think it a very good way to examine dreams
every morning when I wake, what are the nature, circumstances,
principles, and ends of my imaginary actions and passions in them,
to discern what are my chief inclinations, etc.

Wednesday, May 22. To take special care of these following
things : evil speaking, fretting, eating, drinking, and sleeping, speaking
simple verity, joining in prayer, flightiness in secret prayer, listlessness
and negligence, and thoughts that cherish sin.

Monday, July 22. I see there is danger of my being drawn into
transgression by the power of such temptations as a fear of seeming
uncivil, and of offending friends. Watch against it.

Wednesday, July 31. Never in the least to seek to hear sarcastical
relations of others faults. Never to give credit to anything said against
others, except there is very plain reason for it; nor to behave in any
respect the otherwise for it.

Monday, Sept. 2. There is much folly, when I am quite sure I am
in the right, and others are positive in contradicting me, to enter into
a vehement or long debate upon it.

On Friday, January 10, 1724, he made a number
of notes in shorthand, adding after them these words
from Proverbs xii. 23: "A prudent man conceal-
eth knowledge."

Saturday night, June 6. This week has been a remarkable week
with me with respect to despondencies, fears, perplexities, multitudes
of cares, and distraction of mind; being the week I came hither to
New Haven, in order to enter upon the office as Tutor of the College.

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 33

I have now abundant reason to be convinced of the troublesomeness
and vexation of the world, and that it never will be another kind of
world.

Tuesday, Sept. 2. By a sparingness in diet, and eating as much
as may be what is light and easy of digestion, I shall doubtless be able
to think clearer, and shall gain time. 1st, By lengthening out my
life. 2dly, Shall need less time for digestion after meals. 3dly, Shall
be able to study closer without wrong to my health. 4thly, Shall need
less time to sleep. 5thly, Shall seldomer be troubled with the head-
ach.

In the volume from which the selection has been
made of entries in his private diary, the following
reflections appear in connection with the extracts
therefrom (9) :

The foregoing extracts were wrote by Mr. Edwards in the twentieth
and twenty-first years of his age, as appears by the dates. This being
kept in mind, the judicious reader will make proper allowance for
some things which may appear a little juvenile, or like a young Chris-
tian as to the matter or manner of expression; which would not have
been found had it not have been done in early life. . . . For here are
not only the most convincing evidences of sincerity and thorough
religion, of his engaging in a life devoted to God in good earnest, so
as to make religion his only business; but through his great attention
to this matter, he appears to have the judgment and experience of
grey hairs.

The introduction, or preamble, to the seventy
resolutions which Mr. Edwards subscribed to as
his rule of life, reads as follows :

Being sensible that I am unable to do anything without God's
help, I do humbly intreat him by his grace to enable me to keep these
resolutions, so far as they are agreeable to his will, for Christ's sake.

From the list, the following selections are made,
including those not entirely religious in their char-
acter, but more in the nature of general rules for
leading a good life:

34 THEODOSIA

1. Resolved that I will do whatsoever I think to be most to God's
glory, and my own good, profit, and pleasure, in the whole of my
duration, without any consideration of the time, whether now or never
so many myriads of ages hence. Resolved to do whatever I think to
be my duty, and most for the good and advantage of mankind in
general. Resolved to do this whatever difficulties I meet with, how
many and how great soever.

5. Resolved never to lose one moment of time; but improve it the
most profitable way I possibly can.

6. Resolved to live with all my might while I do live.

7. Resolved never to do anything which I should be afraid to do
if it were the last hour of my life.

13. Resolved to be endeavoring to find out fit objects of charity
and liberality.

20. Resolved to maintain the strictest temperance in eating and
drinking.

34. Resolved, In narrations never to speak anything but the pure
and simple verity.

41. Resolved to ask myself at the end of every day, week, month,
and year, wherein I could possibly in any respect have done better.

52. I frequently hear persons in old age say how they would live if
they were to live their lives over again. Resolved that I will live just
so as I can think I shall wish I had done, supposing I live to old age.

67. Resolved after afflictions to inquire what I am the better for them,
what good I have got by them, and what I might have got by them.

The numbers prefixed to the Resolutions previ-
ously given correspond with those used in Mr.
Edwards' original manuscript.

When a young man so methodically blocks out
his rule of life, it is most interesting to learn how
closely he adhered to it in after years. Those who
knew him bear testimony that during his life he
obeyed his self-made rules - - in fact, as he grew
older, and became the father of a large family, he
made others; all, however, in consonance with those
of his youth.

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 35

Mr. Edwards made a secret of his private devotion, and therefore
it cannot be particularly known; though there is much evidence that
he was punctual, constant, and frequent in secret prayer, and often
kept days of fasting and prayer in secret, and set apart a time for
serious devout meditations on spiritual and eternal things, as part of
his religious exercise in secret.

He was very careful and abstemious in eating and drinking, as
doubtless it was necessary so great a student and a person of so delicate
and tender a bodily make as he was, should be, in order to be com-
fortable and useful. When he had, by careful observation, found
what kind and what quantity of diet best suited his constitution and
rendered him most fit to pursue his work, he was very strict and exact
in complying with it; and in this respect lived by rule; and herein he
constantly practised great self-denial, which he also did in his constant
early rising, in order to redeem time for his study. He used himself
to rise by four, or between four and five in the morning.

He commonly spent thirteen hours every day in his study. His
most usual diversion, in summer, was riding on horseback and walking.
He would commonly, unless diverted by company, ride two or three
miles after dinner to some lonely grove, where he would dismount
and walk a while, at which time he usually carried his pen and ink
with him to note any thought that should be suggested which he
chose to retain and pursue, as what promised some light on any im-
portant subject. In the winter he was wont almost daily to take
an axe and chop wood moderately for the space of half an hour or
more.

He read all the books, especially books of divinity, that he could
come at, from which he could hope to get any help in his pursuit of
knowledge. And in this he confined not himself to authors of any
particular sect or denomination; yea, he took much pains to come at
the books of the most noted writers, who advance a scheme of divinity
most contrary to his own principles.

He took his religious principles from the Bible and not from any
human system or body of divinity. Though his principles were
Calvinistic, yet he called no man father. He thought and judged for
himself and was truly very much of an original.

He was thought by some who had but a slight acquaintance with
him to be stiff and unsociable; but this was owing to want of better
acquaintance. He was not a man of many words indeed, and was

36 THEODOSIA

somewhat reserved among strangers, and those on whose candour
and friendship he did not know he could rely.

He possessed but a comparatively small stock of animal life: his
animal spirits were low, and he had not strength of lungs to spare
that would be necessary in order to make him what would be called
an affable, facetious gentleman in all companies.

He was not forward to enter into any dispute among strangers,
and in companies where were persons of different sentiments; as he
was sensible that such disputes are generally unprofitable, and often
sinful, and of bad consequence, and he thought he could dispute to
the best advantage with his pen in his hand.

The imputation that he wras stiff and unsociable was groundless, as
his known and tried friends best knew. They had always found him
easy of access, kind and condescending; and though not talkative, yet
affable and free. Among such whose candour and friendship he had
experienced, he threw off the reserve and was most open and free;
quite patient of contradiction, while the utmost opposition was made
to his sentiments that could be by plausible arguments or objec-
tions.

As he rose very early himself, he was wont to have his family up
in season in the morning, after which, before the family entered on
the business of the day, he attended on family prayers, when a chapter
in the Bible was read, commonly by candle-light in the winter, upon
which he asked his children questions, according to their age and
capacity; and took occasion to explain some passages in it, or enforce
any duty recommended, as he thought most proper.

He was careful and thorough in the government of his children;
and as a consequence of this, they reverenced, esteemed and loved
him. He took special care to begin his government of them in season.
When they first discovered any considerable degree of will and stub-
bornness, he would attend to them till he had thoroughly subdued
them and brought them to submit. . . . He took much pains to
instruct them in the principles of religion; in which he made use of
the Assembly's Shorter Catechism; not merely by taking care that
they learned it by heart, but by leading them into an understanding
of the doctrines therein taught, by asking them questions on each
answer, and explaining it to them. His usual tune to attend to this
was on the evening before the Sabbath, and, as be believed that the
Sabbath or holy time began at sunset the evening before the day, he

't *i. £~ I** /*?

f - t

".— •" " /''./,*. -' - <r -V» ^^ /*" '-.-:'

^x^^:-- x — V '-• ;^'' -;- -^:

• • *»'•» » •<&r -. • . ff * -A-

.•;.;-/', *v >*^» „/* ' ,"<'

u/ l

.-'*•"• J» •*• • '

. r < / /

A Leaf from the Note-book of Rev. Jonathan Edwards.

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 37

ordered his family to finish all their special business by that time, or
before, when they were all called together and a Psalm was sung and
prayer attended, as an introduction to the sanctifying the Sabbath.

He was a great enemy to young people's unseasonable company-
keeping and frolicing, as he looked upon it as a great means of cor-
rupting and ruining youth. And he thought the excuse many parents
make for tolerating their children in it (viz. that it is the custom and
other children practise it, which renders it difficult and even impossible
to restrain theirs) was insufficient and frivolous, and manifested a
great degree of stupidity, on supposition the practice was hurtful and
pernicious to their souls. . . . He allowed not his children to be from
home after nine o'clock at night, when they went abroad to see their
friends and companions; neither were they allowed to sit up much
after that time in his own house when any came to make a visit. If
any gentleman desired acquaintance with his daughters, after hand-
somely introducing himself by properly consulting the parents, he was
allowed all proper opportunity for it, and a room and fire if needed;
but must not intrude on the proper hours of rest and sleep, nor the
religion and order of the family.

He had a strict and inviolable regard to justice in all his dealings
with his neighbors, and was very careful to provide for things honest
in the sight of all men; so that scarcely a man had any dealings with him
that was not conscious of his uprightness. He appeared to have a
sacred regard to truth in his words, both in promises and narrations,
agreeable to the Resolutions.

He was cautious in choosing his intimate friends and therefore had
not many that might properly be called such; but to them he showed
himself friendly in a peculiar manner. He was indeed a faithful friend
and able above most others to keep a secret.

His conversation with his friends was always savory and profitable.
In this he was remarkable and almost singular. He was not wont to
spend his time with them in scandal, evil-speaking, and back-biting,
or in foolish jesting, idle chat and telling stories.

His great benevolence to mankind discovered itself, among other
ways, by the uncommon regard he showed to liberality and charity to
the poor and distressed. He often declared it to be his opinion that
professed Christians in these days are greatly deficient in this duty,
and much more so than in most other parts of external Christianity.
... It was his opinion that every particular church ought, by fre-

38 THEODOSIA

quent and liberal contributions, to maintain a public stock, that might
be ready for the poor and necessitous members of that church.

Smallpox had become very common in the country and was then
at Princetown and likely to spread, and, as Mr. Edwards had never had
it, and inoculation was then practised with great success in those parts,
he proposed to be inoculated, if the physicians would advise it and
the corporation would give their consent.

Accordingly, by the advice of the physician and the consent of the
corporation, he was inoculated February 13. He had it favorably
and it was thought all danger was over; but a secondary fever set in,
and by reason of a number of pustles (pustules) in his throat, the ob-
struction was such that the medicines necessary to staunch the fever
could not be administered. It therefore raged until it put an end to
his life, on the 22nd of March, 1758, in the fifty-fifth year of his
age.

Concerning the inoculation of President Edwards
and his daughter, Professor Wilder writes (15) :

The cases of Jonathan Edwards and Mrs. Burr were signally illus-
trative of the danger often incurred from blind, unthinking submission
to physicians' fads. There was no good cause in either case for having
small-pox. There were several cases in the town, and so healthy per-
sons, under representation that the disease artificially introduced would
be less dangerous than in another form, were often inoculated with
small-pox virus. President Edwards and his daughter were so inocu-
lated, and died in consequence. . . . Pus is always poisonous to the
blood; and in Montreal at the epidemic it was observed by Professor
Coderie that patients who were vaccinated developed small-pox soon
afterward, seemingly as a consequence of the operation. I regard com-
pulsion as rape.

Two memorials which are monumental if not
exactly monuments have been erected to commem-
orate his name (16) :

In 1833, 75 years after his death, a memorial church, named the
Edv/ards Church, was founded in Northampton to perpetuate his
name and to continue the work of his life. It is still a flourishing in-

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 39

stitution, one of the most prosperous religious societies in the vicinity,
and has a membership of 450, with a Sunday School of about 400.

On June 22, 1900, just 150 years from the date of Edwards' dis-
missal from the First Church in Northampton, another memorial w;;s
unveiled within its walls. It was authorized by the church and paid
for by public subscription. It consists of a bronze tablet, set in a
massive frame of green-stained oak, and contains a two-thirds length
relief figure of Edwards, life-size or larger, in his favorite attitude while
preaching. On the frame beneath is this inscription:

In memory of

JONATHAN EDWARDS

Minister of Northampton

From February 15, 1727, to June

22, 1750.

The Law of Truth was in his
mouth, and unrighteousness was
not found in his lips. He walked
with me in peace and uprightness
and did turn many away from in-
iquity. - - Malachi ii. 6.

There are other memorials of lesser character, and various mementoes
of Edwards and his family are treasured in many places. Among
these is an Edwards memorial window in Yale College Chapel. A desk
used by the Rev. Jonathan Edwards is now in possession of the Yale
Divinity School.

In a volume published in Edinburgh in 1799 (17)
eighteen of the sermons delivered by the Rev. Mr.
Edwards are given in full.

The subject of the first sermon was: Jesus Christ
Gloriously Exalted above all Evil in the Work
of Redemption.

The second and third sermons relate to Joseph's
Great Temptation and his Gracious Deliverance.

Sermons 4, 5, and 6, Man's Natural Blindness.

Sermons 7, 8, 9, and 10, Men Naturally God's
Enemies.

40 THEODOSIA

Sermons 11 to 16, The Wisdom of God as Dis-
played in the Way of Salvation by Jesus Christ,
far Superior to the Wisdom of the Angels.

Sermons 17 and 18, The True Christian's Life,
a Journey Towards Heaven.

In the sermon devoted to "Joseph's Great Temp-
tation and his Gracious Deliverance," Mr. Edwards
objected strongly to dancing. He said:

A custom that I desire may be examined by the fore-mentioned
rules, is that of young people of both sexes getting together in the night,
in those companies for mirth and jollity that they call frolics, so spend-
ing their time together till late in the night in their jollity. I desire
our young people to suffer their ears to be open to what I have to say
upon this point, as I am the messenger of the Lord of Hosts to them,
and not determine that they will not harken until they have heard what
I have to say. . . . Have you not found that after you have been to
a frolic you have been more backward in the duty of secret prayer ?
And if you have not wholly neglected it, have you not found that you
have been abundantly more flightly, and ready to turn it off in any
manner, and glad to have done with it ? And more backward to read-
ing and serious meditation, and such things ? And that your mind has
been exceedingly diverted from religion, and that for some time ?

Again, a black mark seems to be set on such in Scripture, as "Ye
are all children of the light and the children of the day: we are not of
the night nor of the darkness. Therefore let us not sleep as do others,
but let us watch and be sober. For they that sleep, sleep in the night,
and they that be drunk are drunken in the night."

Many of you that have lately set up this practice of frolicing and
jollity, profess to be children of the light and of the day, and not to be
the children of darkness. Therefore, walk in the day, and do not those
works of darkness that are commonly done at unseasonable hours of
the night.

But it is objected that the wise man allows of this practice when
he says, in Ecclesiastics iii. 4, There is a time to mourn and a time to
dance.

This is nothing to the purpose, for the utmost that any can pretend
that it proves is denying it to be lawful, and allowing it may be used

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 41

under some circumstances. But not at all that dancing and other
things used by our young people in their frolics are lawful in those
circumstances, any more than what is said in the same chapter - - There
is a time to kill, proves that it is lawful for a man to commit murder.

To deny that dancing, under any circumstances whatever, was
lawful, would be absurd, for there was a religious dancing in the Jewish
Church that was a way of expressing their spiritual mirth. So David
danced before the Lord, and he calls upon others to praise God in the
dance. But all this makes nothing to the present purpose; to prove
that this particular custom, that we have been speaking of among our
young people, is not of a bad tendency, and besides, when the wise man
says there is a time to dance, that does not prove that the dead of night
is the time for it. That same wise man does not justify carnal mirth,
but condemns it: I said of laughter, it is mad; and of mirth, what doth
it?

I desire heads of families, if they have any government over their
children, or any command of their own houses, would not tolerate their
children in such practices, nor suffer such conventions in their homes.

The title of Sermon 18 in the Edinburgh vol-
ume is: "This Life Ought to be Spent by Us so as
to be only a Journey Towards Heaven.'3

Mr. Edwards said:

This doctrine may teach us moderation in our mourning for the
loss of such dear friends who, while they lived, improved their lives
to right purposes.

If they lived a holy life, then their lives were a journey towards
Heaven, and why should we be immoderate in mourning when they
are got to their journey's end ? Death to them, though it appears to
us with a frightful aspect, is a great blessing. Their end is happy and
better than their beginning. "The day of their death is better to them
than the day of their birth." While they lived they desired Heaven
and chose it above this world, or any of the enjoyments of it. They
earnestly sought and longed for Heaven, and why should we grieve
that they have obtained it? Now they have got to Heaven. They
have got home. They never were at home before. They have got
to their Father's house. They find more comfort a thousand times,
now that they have got home, than they did in their journey. While

42 THEODOSIA

they were on their journey they underwent much labour and toil.
It was a wilderness that they passed through, a difficult road.
There were abundance of difficulties in the way; mountains and rough
places. It was a laborious, fatiguing thing to travel the road. They
were forced to lay out themselves to get along, and had many weari-
some days and nights. But now they have got through; they have
got to the place they sought; they are got home; got to their everlasting
rest. They need to travel no more; nor labour any more; nor endure
any more toil and difficulty, but enjoy perfect rest and peace, and will
enjoy them forever. "And I heard a voice from Heaven saying unto
me, write, blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth;
yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours, and their
works do follow them." They do not mourn that they are got home,
but greatly rejoice. They look back upon the difficulties, and sorrows,
and dangers of life, rejoicing that they have got through them all ...
It is true we shall see them no more while here in this world, yet we ought
not immoderately to mourn for that; though it used to be pleasant to
us to see them, and though their company was sweet; for we should
consider ourselves as on a journey too; we should be travelling towards
the same place that they are gone to. And why should we break our
hearts with that that they have got there before us, when we are fol-
lowing after them as fast as we can, and hope, as soon as we get to our
journey's end, to be with them again; to be with them in better cir-
cumstances than ever we were with them while here? A degree of
mourning for near relations when departed is not inconsistent with
Christianity, but very agreeable to it, for as long as we are flesh and
blood, no other can be expected than that we shall have animal pro-
pensities and affections. But we have not just reason to be overborne
and sunk in spirits when the death of near friends is attended with
these circumstances. We should be glad they are got to Heaven;
our mourning should be mingled with joy.

In conclusion, the reverend gentleman's words
were:

Let it be considered that if our lives be not a journey towards Heaven,
they will be a journey to Hell. We cannot continue here always, but
we must go somewhere else. All mankind, after they have been in
this world a little while, go out of it, and there are but two places that

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 43

they go to; the two great receptacles of all that depart out of this world;
the one is Heaven, whither a few, a small number in comparison, travel.
The way that leads hither is but thinly occupied with travellers. And
the other is Hell, whither the bulk of mankind do throng. And one
or the other of these must be our journey's end; the issue of our course
in this world.

Edwards believed in total depravity; not only of
the adult, but of the child. In one of his sermons
he said: 'As innocent as children seem to be to
us, yet if they are out of Christ they are not so in
God's sight, but are young vipers, and are infinitely
more hateful than vipers, and are in a most mis-
erable condition, as well as grown persons. Will
those children . . . that lived and died insensible
of their misery, until they feel it in hell, ever thank
parents for not letting them know what they were in
danger of?'

An editorial written in 1906 (18) forcibly presents
the proper rule of judgment in considering past
events and the lives of those who have long lain in
their graves. The admirers of Edwards have, as
a rule, been the most merciless critics of his grand-
son. They would have the world judge Edwards
by the thought of his time, and his grandson by the
ideas of the present.

The verdict of the day may be that the four generations of the
Mather family represented better than any other the early type of
militant Christianity whose rejection from England for nonconformity
did not prevent them from enforcing conformity with the ideas in the
Colonies, even to the extent of tyranny.

The Mathers were undoubtedly bigoted in religion, superstitious in
belief, and cruel in the treatment of other sects, but they were the
type of their time and actuated by what they believed was a worthy
and religious motive.

44 THEODOSIA

A noted historian has written (19):

In the mind of Jonathan Edwards there was a vein of mysticism
as unmistakable as that in the mind of William Penn. Such mys-
ticism may be found in minds of medium capacity, but in minds of
the highest type I believe it is rarely absent. A mind which has plunged
deeply into the secrets of Nature without exhibiting such a vein of
mysticism is, I believe, a mind sterilized and cut off in one direction
from access to the truth. Along with Edwards' abstruse reasoning
there was a spiritual consciousness as deep as that of Spinoza or Novalis.
From his mystic point of view, the change whereby a worldly, unre-
generate man or woman became fitted for divine life was a conversion
of the soul, an alteration of its innermost purposes, a change of heart
from evil to goodness. Perhaps this way of conceiving the case was
not new with Edwards. From the earliest ages of Christianity a turn-
ing of the soul from the things of this world to Christ has been the
essential, but the importance of what has since come to be known as
conversion, or change of heart, assumed dimensions never known
before.

Jonathan Edwards' theology is rejected at the
present day even by the clergymen. Aaron Burr
rejected it when a youth, his action showing unmis-
takably that he was more than a century ahead of
his times. And although the clergy do not now
believe as Edwards did, many of them still blame
Aaron Burr for forsaking the faith of his fathers,
and consider him an infidel. He was not. On
many occasions he expressed his belief in God, but
it was not the fear-inspiring, revengeful God pic-
tured by his grandfather.

The following, illustrative of his manner of
preaching, is taken from a volume of biographical
sketches (20) :

His mother was a woman of more than ordinary intelligence, having
a profound knowledge of Scripture and the theology of the times.
From her, even more than from his father, Jonathan Edwards inherited

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 45

his peculiar talents. He was a precocious boy, taking deep interest in
his studies and was a keen observer of nature. At thirteen he entered
Yale College, which had then been in existence only fifteen years.

There is just a suspicion of his having indulged, to some extent,
in the usual follies of students, there being some accounts of a "dis-
turbance" during his connection with the college. If such be a fact,
it would seem to be the only break in the strict regularity of his life.
He graduated with high honors at seventeen. He was, from earliest
childhood, inspired with a deep reverence for religion, although it
presented itself to him in its most austere form. . . .

With the growth of the country, public opinion was undergoing a
change with regard to certain theological dogmas. Among those
doctrines which people were beginning to call in question were the
Trinity, endless punishment, the atonement and justification by faith.
These Edwards considered it his duty to defend to the utmost of his
ability, and to that end preached sermons and wrote and published
books which still continue to be held in high esteem by those who are
in sympathy with his teachings. Much of his preaching was stern
and monitory, and calculated to work upon the fears of his auditors.
One sermon of this nature has become famous. It was preached at
Enfield, Conn., in July, 1741. The congregation became convulsed
with agony to such an extent that he was obliged to pause in his dis-
course and request them to be quiet, so that he might be heard.

In the Edinburgh volume (17) is found a most
interesting description of his method of composition
and delivery of his sermons.

Mr. Edwards had the most universal character of a good preacher
of almost any minister in this age. There were but few that heard
him who did not call him a good preacher, however they might dislike
his religious principles, and be much offended by the same truths
when delivered by others; and most admired him above all that ever
they heard. His eminency as a preacher seems to be owing to the
following things:

First. The great pains he took in composing his sermons, espe-
cially in the first part of his life. He wrote most of his sermons all out
for nearly twenty years after he first began to preach; though he did
not wholly confine himself to his notes in delivering them.

46 THEODOSIA

Secondly. His great acquaintance with divinity, his study and
knowledge of the Bible; his extensive and universal knowledge, and
great clearness of thought, enabled him to handle every subject with
great judgment and propriety, and to bring out of his treasury things
new and old. Every subject he handled was instructive, plain, enter-
taining, and profitable, which was much owing to his being master of
the subject, and his great skill to treat it in a most natural, easy, and
profitable manner.

Thirdly. His excellency as a preacher was very much the effect of
his great acquaintance with his own heart, his own inward sense, and
high relish of divine truths, and the high exercise of true experimental
religion. This gave him great insight into human nature; he knew
what was in man, both the saint and the sinner. No description of
his sermons will give the reader the idea of them, which they had who
sat under his preaching or have even read some of his discourses in
print. There are a great many now in manuscript which are probably
as worthy the view of the public as most that have been published in
this country.

His appearance at the desk was with a good grace, and his delivery
easy, natural, and solemn. He had not a strong, loud voice; but
appeared with such gravity and solemnity, and spake with such dis-
tinctness, clearness, and precision; his words were so full of ideas, set
in such a plain and striking light, that few speakers have been so able
to command the attention of an audience as he. His words often
discovered a great degree of inward fervour, without much noise or
external emotion, and fell with great weight on the minds of his hearers.
He made but little motion of his head or hands in the desk. ... In
the latter part of his life he was inclined to think that it would have
been better if he had never accustomed himself to use his notes at all.
... He would have the young preacher write all his sermons, or at
least most of them, out at large, and instead of reading them to his
hearers, take pains to commit them to memory.

His prayers were indeed extempore. He was the farthest from any
appearance of a form as to his words and manner of expression as
almost any man. . . . He was not wont, in ordinary cases, to be
long in his prayers; an error he observed was often hurtful to public
and social prayer, as it tends rather to damp than promote true
devotion.

He kept himself quite free from worldly cares. He left the partic-

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 47

ular oversight and direction of the temporal concerns of his family
almost entirely to Mrs. Edwards; who was better able than most of
her sex to take the whole care of them on her hands. He was less
acquainted with most of his temporal affairs than many of his neigh-
bours, and seldom knew when and by whom his forage for winter was
gathered in, or how many milk kine he had, whence his table was
furnished, etc.

He did not make it his custom to visit his people in their own houses,
unless he was sent for by the sick, or he heard that they were under
some special affliction. Instead of visiting from house to house, he
used to preach frequently at private meetings in particular neighbor-
hoods, and often call the young people and children to his own house,
when he used to pray with them and treat with them in a manner
suited to their years and circumstances. And he catechised the chil-
dren in public every Sabbath in the summer.

He did not neglect visiting his people from house to house, because
he did not look upon it, in ordinary cases, to be one part of the work
of the gospel minister. He was not able to enter into a free conversa-
tion with every person he met with, and in an easy manner turn it to
what topic he pleased, without the help of others, and, as it may be,
against their inclination. He therefore found that his visits of this

O

kind must be in a great degree unprofitable.

The effect of the Rev. Mr. Edwards' preaching
upon his hearers is well described by a correspond-
ent of the Paterson, N. J., Call:

The mention of Jonathan Edwards calls up, oh, so many interesting
memories! My dear friend Moses Berry, long since departed this
life - - what tremendous effect on his quiet, uneventful life the writings
of Jonathan Edwards had! Edwards' "On the Freedom of the Will"
made my poor friend's life miserable. Blessed with good health, with
good worldly prospects, and with a good home, my poor friend worried
terribly over the question as to whether or not he was one of the " elect."
He was a Calvinist of Calvinists - - a Particular Baptist. Misery, they
say, loves company, and it was perhaps on this account that my friend
never felt satisfied until he had persuaded others to read Edwards'
"On the Freedom of the Will." . . .

Yes, it was the logic of Edwards that poor Moses Berry suffered

48 THEODOSIA

from. In spite of his logic and his austere theology, there seems
something grand about the man. One feels inclined to learn more
of him. . . . Reverting again to my old friend Berry and his Particular
Baptist pastor, there is just one item to add. When Moody and
Sankey were carrying on their great work of evangelization in Man-
chester, this particular divine found it incumbent on him to climb the
watch tower of Zion and sound an alarm. He even went so far as to
denounce the evangelists, calling them "Arminian dogs."

Joseph Hawley, 2d, was for many years select-
man and town clerk of Northampton. He was a
farmer, trader, and owTned a saw-mill. He married
Rebekah Stoddard, daughter of Rev. Solomon
Stoddard, and thus became uncle of Rev. Jonathan
Edwards. In the great religious revival of 1735
he became so much affected by Edwards' preach-
ing that he was unable to convince himself that he
had received a sufficient call to salvation and he
committed suicide.

Joseph Hawley, 3d, inherited from his father a
strong predisposition to melancholy. He was one
of the bitterest opponents of his cousin, Jonathan
Edwards, and it is thought he was unable to forget
the cause of his father's suicide.

The quotation which follows (21) refers to an
episode in Mr. Edwards' life which would require
too much space for consideration here, but which
will be treated in full in a succeeding volume which
will be entitled, "Social Life during the Revolution
and the Early Days of the Republic."

In 1744 a great disturbance took place in his parish, through his
indiscreet interference in the affairs and conduct of the younger portion
of his flock, and which resulted in his dismission in 1750. A spirit of
bitterness, wholly unaccountable, infused itself throughout his con-
gregation. From being worshipped as few ministers have ever been,

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 49

even in those palmy days of the ministry, he was treated with most
cutting contumely, and sent forth, with a large family on his hands,
in poverty and disgrace. Under all this unmerited odium, when
calumny did its worst to destroy his peace and blacken his fame, he
manifested the truly Christian spirit and struck not back again.

The first of his published works was a sermon
preached at New Haven, September 10, 1741, on
"The Distinguishing Marks of a Work of the Spirit
of God."

In the year 1742 he published a book in five parts,
entitled 'Some Thoughts Concerning the Present
Revival of Religion in New England and the Way in
which it Ought to be Acknowledged and Promoted."

In the year 1746 he published a treatise on The
Religious Affections."

'The Life of the Rev. Mr. David Brainerd, with
Reflections and Observations thereon," was pub-
lished in the year 1749.

Later appeared his treatise on 'Justification,"
and his two last books on "The Freedom of the
Will" and "Original Sin."

He thought it of importance that ministers should
be very critical in examining candidates for the
ministry with respect to their principles, as well
as their religious dispositions and morals, and on
this account he met with considerable difficulty
and opposition in some instances. His opinion
was that an erroneous or unfaithful minister was
likely to do more hurt than good to the church of
Christ; and therefore he could not have any hand
in introducing a man into the ministry unless he
appeared sound in the faith, and manifested to a
judgment of charity a disposition to be faithful.

50 THEODOSIA

On September 6, 1870, a meeting of the Edwards
family was held at Stockbridge, Mass. The Hon.
Jos. W. Edwards, of Marquette, Michigan, was
chosen president, and the Rev. Jonathan E. Wood-
bridge, of Auburndale, Mass., vice-president. Con-
sidering the great number of descendants of Jona-
than Edwards, the attendance was not large,
but it could, with truth, be called 'distin-
guished.' The meeting lasted two days and the
literary programme offered was of great excellence.
At the opening of the meeting a letter was read
from Mrs. Mary E. Whiting, of Binghamton,
N. Y. She was ninety years of age at the time of
the meeting and was the only living representative
of the grandchildren of Jonathan Edwards. Refer-
ence was made to the fact that the last resting-place
of Mr. Edwards at Princeton, N. J., was marked
only by a plain slab. It has been said: 'Jonathan
Edwards needs no monument," but before the close
of the meeting a committee was appointed to solicit
funds for one at Stockbridge.

The meeting was opened with a prayer, by Prof.
Win. S. Tyler, D.D., of Amherst College, who mar-
ried the daughter of Mrs. Whiting, of Binghamton,
N. Y. An ode written by E. W. B. Canning, of
Stockbridge, was then sung by the choir. An
address of welcome on the part of the people of
Stockbridge was delivered by Rev. Elias Cornelius
Hooker. A commemorative discourse was next
given by Rev. Theodore D wight Woolsey, D.D.,
LL.D., President of Yale College. A hymn written
by Mrs. Sarah Edwards Henshaw, of Ottawa,
111. (who was not present), was sung. The Hon.

Monument to the Rev. Jonathan Edwards at Stock-
bridge, Mass.

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 51

J. Z. Goodrich, chairman of the committee of enter-
tainment, then invited the company to partake of
refreshments, and a blessing was asked by the Rev.
Dr. Prime, of New York. This closed the morn-
ing session.

The afternoon session was opened by an address
on "The Early Life of Jonathan Edwards," by
the Rev. I. N. Tarbox, D.D., of Boston, and a
native of East Windsor. "Edwards as a Thinker
and Preacher' was the subject chosen by Prof.
Edwards A. Park, of Andover Seminary. The
Rev. John Todd, of Pittsfield, Mass., took as his
subject 'The Ministry of Edwards at Northamp-
ton.' "Edwards at Southbridge' was the title of
a discourse by Rev. Mark Hopkins, D.D., LL.D.,
President of Williams College, a native of Stock-
bridge, and a descendant of Mr. John Sargeant,
who initiated the mission to the Indians at Stock-
bridge, and who was followed in the work by the
Rev. Mr. Edwards. It was intended that the
subject "Edwards at Princeton' should be taken
by Dr. James McCosh, President of the College of
New Jersey (Princeton), but he was unable to at-
tend on account of the opening of the college, and
the subject was allotted to S. Irenseus Prime, D.D.,
editor of the New York Observer.

The morning session, September 7, was opened
by a hymn by Dr. Dwight, followed by a prayer
by E. W. Hooker. Next in order was an address
by Rev. Geo. Woodbridge, D.D., rector of the Monu-
mental Church, Richmond, Va., and a descendant
of Jonathan Edwards. Remarks were then
made by Wm. W. Edwards, of Brooklyn, N. Y.,

52 THEODOSIA

Joseph Effingham Woodbridge, of Brooklyn, N. Y.,
and Prof. Frank D. Clark, of the Institution for
the Deaf and Dumb, New York City. Then fol-
lowed a poem by Mrs. Mary B. Clarke, of New-
bern, N. C., and remarks by Hon. Jonathan Edwards,
of New Haven, Conn., concerning the pictures of
Rev. Jonathan Edwards and his wife, Sarah Pier-
pont. The next feature of the programme was a
memorial poem by Mrs. Sarah Edwards Tyler
Henshaw, of Ottawa, 111., entitled 'Our Roll of
Honor," from which the two stanzas which follow
are quoted:

XI

In making up our roll of mark and fame,
We pause at one illustrious, clouded name,
Then write it with a sigh. Oh, cease to slur,
Harsh critic, our proud, brilliant, AARON BURR!
In Calvinism stern a keen adept —
Theology which he could ne'er accept, —
Like Noah's dove which from the ark arose,
He found no other shelter or repose.
By light of lurid fires yet scarcely dim,
How looks the Justice meted out to him ?
What was the treason of a dreamer's brain
To that which hath its tens of thousands slain ?
With that which would acquire a foreign land
To that against its own which raised its hand ?
And wherefore o'er Burr's memory ceaseless rave,
While DAVIS goes unchallenged to his grave?

XII

For Burr, then, and his Theodosia, rise
From us, at least, regrets and sorrowing sighs.
The child of Error, but of Genius too,
We, we, at least, hold not his faults to view:

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 53

We only know he was a child of prayer;
We only feel of none should we despair;
We only think how, through long, anxious years,
Our pious Edwardses with hopes and fears
For his salvation wrestled, prayed, and wept,
Concerts of prayer and frequent vigils kept.
Now lay a wreath upon his lowly sod,
And leave the sleeper with his father's God.

The poem contained an invocation to the por-
trait of Sarah Pierpont Edwards, which, with the
portrait of her husband, the Rev. Jonathan, was
hung upon the walls of the church where the meet-
ing was held. One stanza is subjoined:

TO THE PORTRAIT OF SARAH PIERPONT

O lustrous eyes so dark and deep,

Filled with a shimmering haze!
O eyes that holy vigils keep!
Tears into mine unbidden leap

As I return your gaze.
Why look on us with mild surprise,
Ancestress of the beautiful eyes ?

It would seem as though 'beautiful eyes' were
inherent both in the Edwards and Burr families,
for according to the biographers and historians,
the Rev. Aaron Burr, who married Esther Edwards,
and who was the father of Col. Aaron Burr, had
similar eyes. The closing lines of the poem were
as follows:

The Edwards line — may it forever last!
The Edwards present - - may it match the past !
The Edwards future - - may it proudly claim
A record worthy our ancestral fame!

54 THEODOSIA

A letter from Rev. Win. B. Sprague, of Flush-
ing, N. Y., was then read. The committee on the
erection of a monument to Jonathan Edwards
consisted of Hon. Jonathan Edwards, of New Haven,
Conn.; Henry Edwards, of Boston, Mass.; Hon.
Jos. W. Edwards, of Marquette, Mich.; Eli Whit-
ney, of New Haven, Conn.; Prof. Theodore W.
Dwight, LL.D., of New York, N. Y.; W. Dwight
Bell, of Philadelphia, Penn, ; and the Rev. J. E.
Woodbridge, of Auburndale, Mass.

Resolutions conveying the thanks of the family
to the citizens of Stockbridge for the entertainment
afforded and courtesies extended were read by Hon.
Jonathan Edwards, of New Haven, and adopted.
Among the members of the family present was Mr.
Jonathan Edwards, of Forest City, Nebraska. He
had not been East since he had attended the funeral
of his grandfather, Timothy Edwards, in 1813 -
fifty-nine years previous. Addresses then followed
by Rev. H. M. Field, D.D., of Stockbridge, the
Rev. Mr. Eggleston, formerly a pastor in that town,
and the Rev. Dr. Gale, of Lee. A poem by Geo.
T. Dole, of Stockbridge, which contained the fol-
lowing allusion to Colonel Aaron Burr, was then read :

But peradventure (pardon us) of puff
Your ears, your hearts, already have enough.
Remember, then, your glory bright to blur,
In your emblazoned 'scutcheon sticks one Burr.
In earthly waters, purest and most clear,
Some turbid spots will now and then appear;
And every stream from mountain-heighi that flows
Sinks far below the level whence it rose.

An address by David Dudley Field, LL.D., and a

Hexagonal Revolving Desk used by the Rev. Jonathan

Edwards.

•

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 55

benediction by Prof. Edwards A. Park brought
the meeting to a close.

The preceding account of the meeting at Stock-
bridge, Mass., is condensed from "The Edwards
Memorial" (10).

On Monday, October 5, 1903, services in com-
memoration of the 200th anniversary of the birth
of the Rev. Jonathan Edwards were held at the
First Congregational Church, South Windsor, Conn.
The exercises included an address of welcome by
the Rev. C. A. Jaquith, the pastor. Yale Univer-
sity was represented by Prof. Lewis O. Brastow,
and Rev. Dr. Henry T. Rose, of Northampton.
Prof. Theodore S. Woolsey, LL.D., of the Yale
faculty, delivered an address on The Descendants
of Jonathan Edwards.' An address was also de-
livered by the Rev. Dr. E. A. Dunning, of Boston,
editor of the Congregationalist. A visit was made
to the birthplace of the Rev. Jonathan Edwards
and to that of his father, the Rev. Timothy Ed-
wards.

The evening before, addresses were made by Prof.
H. M. Gardiner, of Smith College, Rev. Dr. John
Coleman Adams, of the Church of the Redeemer,
Rev. Dr. Joseph H. Twichell, and Rev. Dr. George
M. Stone, pastor of the Asylum Avenue Baptist
Church, and a historical address by Judge John A.
Stoughton, all of Hartford. Dr. Stone, in his ad-
dress, made some quotations from Whittier's poem
on Edwards, one stanza of which is given below:

"In the church of the wilderness Edwards wrought,
Shaping his creed at the forge of thought;
And with Thor's own hammer welded and bent

56 THEODOSIA

The iron links of his argument,

Which strove to grasp in its mighty span

The purpose of God and the fate of man!

Yet faithful still, in his daily round,

To the weak, and the poor, and sin-sick found,

The schoolman's lore and the casuist's art,

Drew warmth and light from his fervent heart."

The allusions to the visits to the weak and the
poor may be attributed to what is called the poet's
license. As has been previously stated, the Rev.
Mr. Edwards did not follow the practice of visiting
his parishioners except on what he considered very
important occasions.

The 'Autocrat of the Breakfast Table' wrote
about Mr. Edwards, in his conversational way (22) :

Of all the scholars and philosophers that America had produced
before the beginning of the present century, two only had established
a considerable and permanent reputation in the world of European
thought - - Benjamin Franklin and Jonathan Edwards. No two indi-
viduals could well differ more in temperament, character, beliefs, and
mode of life than did these two men, representing respectively intellect,
practical and abstract.

Edwards would have called Franklin an infidel and turned him
over to the uncovenanted mercies, if, indeed, such were admitted in
his programme of divine administration. Franklin would have called
Edwards a fanatic, and tried the effect of Poor Richard's common
sense on the major premises of his remorseless syllogisms.

We are proud of the great Boston-born philosopher, who snatched
the thunder-bolt from Heaven with one hand, and the scepter from
tyranny with the other. So, also, are we proud of the great New
England Divine, of whom it might be said quite as truly: "Eripuit
coelo fulmen." (He snatched the lightning from the Heavens.)

The feeling which naturally arises when contemplating the char-
acter of Jonathan Edwards is that of deep reverence for a man who
seems to have been anointed from his birth, who lived a life pure,
laborious, self-denying, occupied with the highest themes and busy in

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 57

the highest kind of labor --such a life as in another church might
have given him a place in the Ada Sandorium. (Register of the
saints.) We can in part account for what he was when we remember
his natural inherited instincts, his training, his faith, and the conditions
by which he was surrounded. His ancestors had fed on sermons so
long that he must have been born with scriptural texts lying latent in
his embryonic thinking marrow, like the undeveloped picture in the
film of collodion.

He was born in the family of a Connecticut minister, in a town
where revivals of religion were of remarkable frequence. His mother,
it may be suspected, found him in brains, for she was called the brighter
of the old couple; and the fact that she did not join the Church until
Jonathan was twelve years old implies that she was a woman who
was not to be hurried and to become a professor of religion simply
because she was the wife of the Rev. Timothy Edwards.

His opinion of the devil is hardly more respectful than that which
he entertains of man. "If the devil be exceedingly crafty and subtle,"
he says, "yet he is one of the greatest fools and blockheads in the
world, as the surplus of wicked men are." But for all he was such a
fool, he has played a very important part, Edwards thinks, on the great
page of the world's history.

From a sermon preached at the Church of the
Redeemer, Hartford, Conn., October 4, 1903, the
following is taken (23) :

Two hundred years ago to-morrow Jonathan Edwards was born at
East Windsor. To the average American he is chiefly known to-day
as a theologian who presented the harsher side of Calvinism, with
more power, and rigor, and relentlessness than any American preacher
before or since. And few good men have left a more unpleasant
memory than he to his countrymen. But it would seem as if we were
sufficiently removed from the spell of his theology to try to gain a
dispassionate view of the man, especially those of us who are the most
completely emancipated from the fetters of his theology and spell of
his logic.

The first things that one learns about him, as he begins to inquire
concerning this great name, is that he was a preacher who pictured
the torments to which he believed the major part of his fellowmen

58 THEODOSIA

were doomed, with awful power and particularity; that he called the
children, when unconverted, "little vipers, and worse than vipers";
he insisted that the saints in glory would rejoice in the suffering of
their children, parents, brothers, driven into eternal pains, in which
they would "roast" forever; that the natural man is the enemy to
God, whom he would kill if he could, and tear from his throne. The
sum of what the average men hear about Edwards has filled them
with aversion for him and his theology.

So it is with some surprise that it is found that the experts in biog-
raphy and history credit him with rare distinction. . . .The backbone
of Edwards' theology is the sovereignty of God; and that is the corner-
stone of Universalism. "The doctrine of God's sovereignty," he
wrote, "has often appeared an exceeding pleasant, bright, and sweet
doctrine to me; and absolute sovereignty is what I love to ascribe to
God." That is the very bedrock on which the Universalist builds
his faith in the salvation of all souls. He believes, as Edwards loved
to, in the absolute rule of God in his own creation. But Edwards made
the mistake of enthroning a bad God in Heaven. If Jonathan
Edwards' God had been a good God, Edwards would have been a
Universalist. He could not have escaped it. But his deity was an
exceedingly bad one and was represented as doing things for which he
would have damned human beings. It was of Edwards' God that
Henry Ward Beecher said in Plymouth pulpit that he was "a monster
more hideous than Satan."

Edwards' "Treatise on the Religious Affections" is one of the most
discouraging works ever written for the perusal of the devout. It
fills the unhappy Christian's mind with so many misgivings as to
whether he really is saved by the operation of the spirit, that, as Dr.
Holmes says: "Many a pious Christian after reading it must have
set himself down as a castaway."

I realize the malign power of this well-meant but mistaken work,
from the fact that all my life I have had to overcome people's doubts
as to whether they were "good enough to join the church." Since
reading this book, I know that I and every modern minister in America
have had to fight Jonathan Edwards, and try to unclasp his dead
hand from the hearts of men and women whom we have tried to bring
to an avowal of discipleship in Christ, but who have denied us with
misgivings and scruples bora of this teaching of the Northampton
divine.

The "Jonathan Edwards Tree" at Northampton. Mass.

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 59

He pushed Calvinism to the limit, and America revolted. He put
the religious mind of the land to too much of a strain and it broke under
the tension. This system is a ruin to-day, but out of the debris men
may quarry great blocks of truth, from which to build a finer, fairer
temple to the sovereign, God of Love, whom he worshipped, but whose
fulness and beneficence he could not see.

A prominent Boston newspaper said editorially
in 1903 (24):

Religious thought has changed greatly since Jonathan Edwards
preached the gospel of salvation, and in these days New England's
distinguished divine would probably have few followers; nevertheless
the severe Calvinistic teaching of Edwards had its part in the liberaliz-
ing of popular religious belief. If not the man for the present day,
he was indubitably the man for his own time. His was the voice of
his contemporaries. His theology was an embodiment of the insistent
and persistent belief of the Pilgrim and Puritan. Neither the church
nor the people of New England could have been what they are to-day
but for men who looked upon religion as a penance, and upon God as
a ruler to be placated instead of a Father to love and to trust. If the
early ministers had not lifted the people as high as their own thought-
level, the people could not easily have been raised to a higher plane
by preachers of later date.

Dr. George A. Gordon, of the Old South Church, in his address
on the "Significance of Edwards To-day," at the memorial celebration
at Northampton in 1900, said that Edwards "as a whole is incredible,
impossible. He is nearly as much in the wrong as in the right. He
carries his vast treasure in the earthen vessel of radical inconsistency
and fundamental error, his anthropology being defective and incon-
sistent with his exaltation of the God of absolute love. If," he adds,
"the plan of salvation includes only a part of mankind, the God of
absolute love must be surrendered; if the God of absolute love is at the
head of the universe, the plan of salvation inclusive only of a part of the
race must be abandoned." . . .

A test of a man's size is the sort of men he is compared with when
men come to make their appraisals of him. Reference has already
been made to Rabbi Duncan's classing him with Aristotle; as a lover
of his wife to be, and a poetic commentator on feminine virtue and
loveliness, he has repeatedly been compared with Dante; the flight

60 THEODOSIA

and scope of his imagination dealing with things of the spirit world
have naturally suggested Milton; his experience of exile from North-
ampton for conscience's sake recalls Savonarola's fate in Florence. . . .
When it comes to present-day American estimates of Edwards, it
is evident that we are still loyal to his name. First there is the poll
taken for the Hall of Fame in 1900, when Edwards led the list of Ameri-
can theologians, receiving eighty-two of the ninety-seven electors'
votes, Henry Ward Beecher coming next, with sixty-four, and William
Ellery Channing with fifty-eight votes.

At the present day, the theology preached by
Jonathan Edwards does not commend itself to what
may be considered advanced thinkers. The New
York Outlook says:

Superlatives are always dangerous, but it is safe to say that New
England has produced no greater preacher and no greater theologian
than he. But he was less an originator than an interpreter and
defender. He borrowed -the essential features of his theology from
Calvin, as Calvin had borrowed them from Augustine, and Augustine
had borrowed them from the Roman law. . . . His system of theology
has now only a historical existence. No minister preaches it; no
church believes it; no theological seminary teaches it, except with
modifications which Edwards would have rejected with indignant
disdain.

In the same vein are certain comments made by
a Methodist Episcopal paper, Zion's Herald, pub-
lished in Boston.

He set out to re-assert with utmost vigor the doctrine of divine
sovereignty, at a period when this conviction was becoming a subordi-
nate one in the religious mind; he attempted to lay a deeper emphasis
upon the absolute, arbitrary, unconditioned will of God, and utterly
to demolish and annihilate Arminianism, which he deemed a most
pestilential evil wholly abhorrent to all lovers of the doctrines of grace,
and likely to ruin the churches. His intention was admirable, and
success for the time seemed all that could be desired. But the ages
were against him, and in the long run he proved powerless to stem the
tide of Arminian aggression. That which he accounted fatal error has,

Tablet to the Rev. Jonathan Edwards in the First
Congregational Church, Northampton, Mass.

HER GREAT-GRANDFATHER 61

in its fundamental contention, received the stamp of almost universal
approval and been conclusively shown to be the truth of God. His
treatise on the Will — his most elaborate and most immediately influ-
ential work, that by which he became mainly known - - held in its
day, and long afterward as absolutely unanswerable, has few now to
do it reverence, and very few who wish to be regarded as giving it full
acceptance.

Another clergyman of the present day writes as
follows (25):

Hell, as hell used to be understood, is no longer preached by the
preachers or believed in by the people. The hell with which Jonathan
Edwards used to make thousands tremble as often as he went into his
pulpit, would, if preached to-day, even by a Jonathan Edwards
scarcely prevail to produce a ripple of excitement. . . . The hell of
theology never existed except in the theologians' minds, but the hell
of Nature is an eternal reality, which no amount of disbelief is able
to affect, and from which no one of us can possibly get away.

We no longer believe that we "go to hell"; but it is as certain as
anything in Euclid that, as often as is necessary, hell comes to us.

Hell or Heaven is the harvest of a man's sowing, the inevitable fruit
of his planting. . . . To venerate the kind and the true is to find your-
self in a world beautiful as the things for which you live; while to dedi-
cate yourself to the selfish and the brutal, the dishonorable and the
mean, is to rear about yourself the walls of shame and the habitation
of ugliness and unrest.

In the year 1906, Theodosia Garrison wrote in
(New York) Life :

He trembled in the morning,

At noon he was afraid,
And heavy on his heart at night

The hand of fear was laid.

A presence walked beside him

Of horror and of fright —
A shadow in the sunshine,

A menace in the night.

62 THEODOSIA

And this that dogged his childhood,

This thing of scourge and rod,
They gave him as a priceless gift,

And bade him call it God.

They made for him a fear that killed

The child-joy in his breast;
They made for him a shape of dread

And bade him love it best.

Oh Mild, Oh Just, Oh Merciful!

What then shall be their shame,
These souls who teach a little child

To shudder at Thy name!

Poets are said to most acutely sense the higher
feelings of mankind.

Why has so much space been given to Jonathan
Edwards and his religious precepts ? Because the
reader must understand the religious situation in
the Colonies, when Aaron Burr was a young man,
in order to fully comprehend his reasons for object-
ing then to a theology which, as we have seen, is
now generally rejected by professing and accepted
Christians. In religion, as in many other lines of
thought, Aaron Burr was in advance of the period
in which he lived.

CHAPTER IV

MRS. SARAH PIERPONT EDWARDS

SARAH PIERPONT, who became the wife of
the Rev. Jonathan Edwards, was the daughter
of James Pierpont, the minister at New Haven.
Her grandfather was John Pierpont, who settled
in Roxbury, Mass. He was the son of Sir John
Pierpont of Nottingham, in England. Her father
was one of the founders of Yale College, trustee,
and professor of moral philosophy. She was also
descended from the Rev. Thomas Hooker, known
as 'the father of Connecticut churches.''

Mr. Edwards was desirous of being married at
once, but she replied with a refusal to marry until
she was seventeen, and when he insisted by declar-
ing that patience was not a virtue, she still adhered
to her refusal, and they were not married until July
26, 1727.

She certainly would have received commendation
from President Roosevelt, and perhaps have been
awarded a medal, for in less than twenty-two years
she became the mother of eleven children.

Prof. Louis Albert Banks (11) gives an interest-
iny account of their courtship and family life:

Soon after coming to Northampton, Edwards decided to seek him
a wife. While in New Haven, in attendance on Yale College, he had
first heard of Sarah Pierpont, who is described as a young woman

63

64 THEODOSIA

of marvelous beauty. When young Edwards was only twenty years
old, and this girl thirteen, he wrote a paragraph concerning her, which
the famous Dr. Chalmers is said to have greatly admired because of
its eloquence.

"They say there is a certain young lady in New Haven who is
beloved of that great Being who made and rules the world, and that
there are certain seasons in which this great Being, in some way or
other invisible, comes to her and fills her mind with exceeding sweet
delight, and that she hardly cares for anything except to meditate on
Him; that she expects after a while to be received up where He is, to
be raised up out of the world, and caught up into Heaven; being as-
sured that He loves her too well to let her remain at a distance from
Him always. There she is to dwell with Him and to be ravished with
His love and delight forever. Therefore if you present all the world
before her, with the richest of its treasures, she disregards and cares
naught for it, and is unmindful of any pain or affliction. She has a
strange sweetness in her mind, and singular purity in her affections;
is most just and conscientious in all her conduct; and you could not
persuade her to do anything wrong or sinful, if you would give her all
the world, lest she should offend this great Being. She is of a wonderful
calmness, and universal benevolence of mind; especially after this
great God has manifested Himself to her mind. She will sometimes
go about from place to place singing sweetly; and seems to be always
full of joy and pleasure, and no one knows for what. She loves to be
alone, walking in the fields and groves, and seems to have some one
invisible always convening with her." . . .

Sarah Pierpont Edwards seems to have been worthy of the elo-
quent description of her lover. The famous George Whitefield,
visiting them many years afterwards, and spending several days at
Northampton, left his impression of his visit in his diary in the following
paragraph :

"On the Sabbath felt wonderful satisfaction at being at the house
of Mr. Edwards. He is a son himself and hath also a daughter of
Abraham for his wife. A sweeter couple I have not seen. Their
children were dressed, not in silks and satins, but plain, as becomes
the children of those who in all things ought to be examples of Chris-
tian simplicity. She is a woman adorned with a meek and quiet
spirit, and talked so feelingly and so solidly on the things of God, and
seemed to be such an helpmate to her husband, that she caused me to

Miss Sarah Pierpont, who became the wife of Rev.

Jonathan Edwards. Photographed

expressly for this work.

•

HER GREAT-GRANDMOTHER 65

renew those prayers which for some months I have put up to God,
that he would send me a daughter of Abraham to be my wife. I find
upon many accounts it is my duty to marry. Lord, I desire to have
no choice of my own. Thou knowest my circumstances."

Mrs. Edwards' character has been fully and care-
fully considered in many volumes, and in magazine
and newspaper articles. It is possible here to men-
tion only a few of the things in which she is said to
have excelled, and to have set an example worthy
of the imitation of all. She is said to have become
remarkably religious at the age of five years.
During her life she was eminent for her piety.
Religious conversation was her delight, and she
promoted it whenever possible. The friends of true
religion, and those who were ready to engage in
religious conversation, were her peculiar friends and
intimates. She took delight in the religious duties
of the closet and highly prized social worship. It
was her custom to attend private meetings of reli-
gious worship that were kept up at Northampton
while Mr. Edwards lived there. She paid proper
deference to her husband, and treated him with
decency and respect at all times. As he was of a
weakly and infirm constitution, and was peculiar
and exact in his diet, she spared no pains to con-
form to his inclinations, and made things agreeable
and comfortable for him.

No person of discernment could be conversant
with the family without observing the great har-
mony and mutual love that subsisted between them.
She bore her own troubles with patient cheerfulness
and good humor.

She was a good economist, managing her house-

66 THEODOSIA

hold affairs with discretion. She was very careful
that nothing should be wasted or lost. She took
almost the whole care of the temporal affairs of
the family within doors and without, and in this
she wras peculiarly suited to Mr. Edwards' disposi-
tion, who chose to have no care of worldly business.
She had an excellent way of governing her children.
She knew how to make them respect and obey her
cheerfully. She seldom struck her children a blow,
and if any correction was needful, it was not given
in a passion. When she had occasion to reprove
or rebuke, she would do it in a few words and in
a calm and gentle manner. In her directions or
reproofs, she addressed herself to the reason of her
children. Quarrelling and contention, such as fre-
quently takes place among children, was not known
among them. She was sensible in many respects
that the chief care of forming children by govern-
ment and instruction naturally lies on mothers, as
they are generally with their children in their most
pliable age, when they commonly receive impres-
sions, and their characters are formed for life. As
the law of kindness was in her tongue, so her hands
were not withheld from beneficence and charity.
She was always a friend and patroness of the poor
and helpless, and did much in acts of charity as well
as in commending it to others on all occasions.
She was remarkable for her kindness to her friends,
and visitors who came to see Mr. Edwards. She
would spare no pains to make them welcome and
provide for their comfort and convenience. She
made it a rule to speak well of all, so far as she
could with truth and justice to herself and others.

HER GREAT-GRANDMOTHER

She was not wont to dwell with delight on the im-
perfections or failings of any; and when she heard
persons speaking ill of others, she would say what
she thought she could with truth and justice in their
excuse.

Lucy was the fifth child and fifth daughter of
Mr. Edwards. She attended her father in his last
sickness. When he became sensible that he could
not survive, he called her to him and addressed her
in a few words, which were taken down in writing
as nearly as could be recollected (17) :

"Dear Lucy,

It seems to be the will of God that I must shortly leave you ; there-
fore give my kindest love to my dear wife, and tell her, that the un-
common union which has so long subsisted between us, has been of
such a nature, as I trust is spiritual, and therefore will continue for
ever: and I hope she shall be supported under so great a trial, and
submit cheerfully to the will of God. And as to my children, you are
now like to be left fatherless, which I hope will be an inducement to
you all to seek a Father who will never fail you. And as to my funeral,
I would have it to be like Mr. Burr's; and any additional sum of
money that might be expected to be laid out that way, I would have
it disposed of to charitable uses."

The Mr. Burr to whom he referred was his son-
in-law, President Aaron Burr, of the College of
New Jersey. He had ordered on his deathbed that
nothing should be expended but what would be agree-
able to the dictates of Christian decency, and that
the sum that must be expended at a modish funeral,
over and above the necessary cost of a decent one,
should be given to the poor, out of his estate.

At the present day, appeals are often made through
the newspapers that the cost of funerals may be
reduced. The author of the work from which the

68 THEODOSIA

above quotation is made, in commenting upon the
request made by President Burr and President
Edwards in regard to their funerals, said, in 1799:

"It is to be wished and hoped that the laudable example of these
two presidents, in which they bear their dying testimony against a
practice so unchristian, and of such bad tendency so many ways, may
have some good effect."

It is evident that some reforms progress very
slowly, for the tendency, during the past hundred
years, has undoubtedly been to increase the outlay
for funeral expenses rather than to decrease them.
The prevailing increase in expenditure at the present
time comes in the way of more expensive coffins,
or caskets, and the long retinue of carriages which
follow the deceased to the grave. In the olden days
it was the custom to give away a great number of
costly mourning scarfs, and there was, as the old
chroniclers say, a consumption of a great quantity
of spirituous liquors.

President Edwards said but very little during his
sickness. Just before his death, some persons who
sat in the room expressed deep regret at the great
loss to the college and to religion in general. To
their surprise, not imagining that he had heard or
would ever speak another word, he said: "Trust
in God and ye need not fear." These were his
last words.

The physician who inoculated and constantly
attended him wrote as follows to his wife (17) :

"Never did any mortal man more clearly and fully evidence the
sincerity of all his professions, by one continued, universal, calm,
cheerful resignation and patient submission to the divine will, through
every stage of his disease, than he. Not so much as one discontented

HER GREAT-GRANDMOTHER 69

expression, nor the least appearance of murmuring through the whole.
And never did any person expire with more perfect freedom from
pain: not so much as one distorted hair, but in the most proper sense
of the words, he really fell asleep."

As the same physician who inoculated President
Edwards performed a like service for Mrs. Esther
Burr, he is probably the medical gentleman who,
after her death, said that he could call her disease
by no name but that of a messenger sent suddenly
to call her out of the world.

From the old volume from which so much valu-
able information has been obtained, we extract
the following (17) :

Mrs. Sarah Edwards, the amiable consort of President Edwards,
did not long survive him. In September she set out in good health
on a journey to Philadelphia, to take care of her two orphan grand-
children, which were now in that city, and had been since the death
of Mrs. Burr. As they had no relations in those parts, Mrs. Edwards
proposed to take them into her own family. She arrived there by the
way of Princeton, September 21, in good health, having had a com-
fortable journey, but in a few days she was suddenly seized with a
violent complaint which put an end to her life on the fifth day, October
2, 1758, in the 49th year of her age. She said not much in her sick-
ness. On the morning of the day she died, she apprehended her
death was near; when she expressed her entire resignation to God,
and desired that God might be glorified in all things; and that she
might be enabled to glorify him to the last: and continued in such a
temper, calm and resigned, till she died.

Her remains were carried to Princeton, which is about forty miles
from Philadelphia, and deposited with Mr. Edwards'. Thus, they
who were in their lives remarkably lovely and pleasant, in their death
were not much divided. Here lie the father and mother, the son and
daughter, who are laid together in the. grave, within the space of a
little more than a year, though a few months ago their dwelling was
more than 150 miles apart. Two presidents of the same college
and their consorts, than whom it will doubtless be hard to find four

70 THEODOSIA

person more valuable and useful; in a few months are cut off from
the earth forever; and by a remarkable providence are put, as it were,
into one grave! And we the survivors are left under the gloomy
apprehension that these righteous are taken away from the evil to

come!

Surely America is greatly emptied by these deaths! How much
knowledge, wisdom, holiness is gone from the earth forever! And
where are they who shall make good their ground!

Mrs. Sarah Pierpont Edwards.

.

CHAPTER V

REVEREND AARON BURR

REV. AARON BURR, father of Col. Aaron
Burr, was born January 4, 1716, at Fairfield,
Conn. He was the son of Daniel Burr, and a de-
scendant of John Burr. His ancestors were persons
of great respectability. Mr. Burr was graduated
at Yale College in 1735, at the age of nineteen, in
the class with Joseph Bellamy. He won the Berke-
ley scholarship, indicating that he was one of the
best three in his class in Greek and Latin. He was
converted during the revival at New Haven, Novem-
ber, 1736. The same year he was licensed, and
preached his first sermon in Greenfield, Mass., after
which he labored a short time in Hanover, N. J.

At a town meeting held in Newark, N. J., Decem-
ber 21, 1736, a vote was taken as to whether they
should extend a call to Mr. Burr for the further
improvement in the work of the ministry among them,
which was carried in the affirmative. On the 30th
day of December, the committee waited on Mr. Burr,
extending the call and agreeing with him for one
year, to commence from the tenth day of January,
1737, for which services he was to have the sum of
£60 (26). His work was eminently successful, and
he was looked upon as one of the most learned
divines and accomplished scholars of his time.

71

72 THEODOSIA

In 1748 he was unanimously elected President of
the New Jersey College (Princeton) which he was
instrumental in founding, succeeding Rev. Jona-
than Dickinson. The college was then at Eliza-
bethtown, N. J., but was removed to Newark, N. J.,
in 1757.

On June 29, 1752, Mr. Burr married Esther
Edwards, and resided at the parsonage at Newark,
N. J. Two children were born to them - - a daughter
Sarah, May 3, 1754, and a son, Aaron Burr, Febru-
ary 6, 1756.

On the twenty fourth day of September, 1757, Mr.
Burr died of nervous fever, and was buried at
Princeton, N. J., in the cemetery which is part of the
college grounds, Rev. Jonathan Edwards' grave
adjoining.

Mr. Charles Burr Todd gives an interesting
account of the Rev. Aaron Burr's daughter Sarah,
and her descendants (4):

Rev. Aaron Burr, of Newark, N. J., settled at Newark as pastor of
the First Church, Jan. 10, 1737. He married Esther, daughter of
Rev. Jonathan Edwards, June 29, 1752. Their children were:

Sarah, born May 3, 1754, married Judge Tappan Reeve, June 24,
1772, and had one son, Aaron Burr, born Oct. 3, 1780, who graduated
at Yale College, 1802, married Annabella Sheldon, of New York,
Nov. 21, 1808, settled at Troy, N. Y., as attorney and counsellor-at-law,
and died there Sept. 1, 1809, leaving a son, Tapping Burr Reeve, born
at Troy, Aug. 16, 1809, who died at Litchfield, Conn., Aug. 28, 1829,
while a student in Yale College. Annabella, widow of Aaron Burr
Reeve, married David J. Burr, of New Haven, and removed to Rich-
mond, Va.

Tappan Reeve, Chief Judge of the Superior Court of Connecticut,
died Dec. 13, 1823, aged 79. Sarah, his wife, died March 30, 1797.
Judge Reeve was born in Brookhaven, L. I., October, 1744, graduated
at Princeton College in 1763, and until 1772 was a tutor in that insti-

a

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-

T:

-f

v:

HER GRANDFATHER 73

tution. Early in that year he came to Litchfield, Conn., and began
the practice of law in that then important village. ... In 1798 he
was chosen judge of the Superior Court of Connecticut. "Judge
Reeve," says Hollister in his History of Connecticut, "was a man of
ardent temperament, tender sensibilities, and of a nature deeply re-
ligious. He was the first eminent lawyer in this country to dare to
arraign the common law of England for its severity and refined cruelty
in cutting off the natural rights of married women and placing their
property, as well as their persons, at the mercy of their husbands,
who might squander it or hoard it up at pleasure."

He is described as a most venerable man in appearance, with thick
gray hair parted and falling in profusion over his shoulders, his voice
only a loud whisper, but distinctly heard by his earnestly attentive
pupils.

In 1784 Judge Reeve established the first law
school in the United States at Litchfield. He re-
mained in charge of it until 1820, when Judge James
Gould, afterwards a member of the United States Su-
preme Court, succeeded him and continued it until
1833. During the half century of its existence fully
one thousand pupils attended, of whom 16 became
United States senators, 50 members of the House of
Representatives, 40 judges, 10 governors, 5 cabinet
ministers, and 2 vice-presidents of the United States,
one of whom was John C. Calhoun. The building
is still standing (1906) in a good state of preserva-
tion.

A fuller account of Judge Reeve's life and work
may be found in an article entitled 'Litchfield
Hill" in Harper's Magazine, March, 1887.

One of the most comprehensive short biographies
written of the elder Aaron Burr is by President
J. E. Rankin, of Howard University, who is also
the author and editor of "Esther Burr's Journal,"
to which reference will be made in the chapter

74 THEODOSIA

relating to Mrs. Esther Burr, the mother of Colonel
Aaron Burr (27).

The Bible says, "Let no man glory in men." When Princeton was
founded, when Nassau Hall was built, there was no name more honor-
able among the American Colonies than that of Aaron Burr. In the
Town Records of Newark, N. J., December 30, 1736, is this entry:
"Town meeting treated with Mr. Aaron Burr and agreed to give him
£60 for one year from January 10."

That was the beginning of a pastorate of unusual harmony, length
and usefulness. For fifteen years the young pastor lived unmarried.
Was he waiting until Esther Edwards of Northampton was of a suit-
able age? She came with her mother, escorted by a young student
of Princeton, on June 29, 1741, aged 19. Whether or not it was owing
to the pressure of professional duties, the Christian young bridegroom
had his bride conducted to him as did Isaac of old.

And it is doubtful whether Esther Edwards, riding on horseback
through the wilderness from Stockbridge to the Hudson, and then
sailing down the river in a sloop, and then across the bay to Newark,
did not have the severer experiences. The kind of civilization to which
he entroduced his bride in Newark may be gathered from this town
action, 1746-47: 'Voted that whosoever shall cut timber on the
Parsonage land, shall forfeit 10 shillings a load." Also from this action
in 1754: "Every tree cut on Parsonage land shall be 20 shillings; one-
half of it to go to the informer."

The elder Aaron Burr was born in Fairfield, Conn., 1716. The
family had been there for three generations, named: Jehu, Jehu, Jr.,
Daniel, Aaron - - all upright and honorable men. He was the young-
est of six sons and very fond of study. He graduated at Yale, 1735,
in the class with Joseph Bellamy. . . .

Mr. Burr was in closest intimacy with President Edwards of North-
ampton, and the Tennents in New Jersey. These men wranted in
New Jersey a training school for ministers of a different type from
that then at New Haven, where David Brainerd, the missionary to
the Indians, had lately been expelled, and where he was, as they thought,
mercilessly hindered from graduating with his class, although he
made the humblest apologies for speaking unadvisedly concerning
one of the tutors. Mr. Burr believed in the ministrations of WTiite-
field. Indeed, in August, 1739, before Whitefield ever preached in

The Rev. Aaron Burr, father of Vice President Aaron

Burr.

HER GRANDFATHER 75

the region, a remarkable revival began in Newark and was confined
to that city. The young preacher's labors were marked by so much
fervor, directness, tact, and grace; he was so faithful and persevering;
he had such winning manners; he so lived out in his life what he
preached in the pulpit; he had such unusual rhetorical and literary gifts.

Princeton grew out of a germ planted by the Rev. Jonathan Dickin-
son, of Elizabethtown, who, like nearly all of the ministers of the period,
had several young men under training for the ministry. The first
charter was granted on October 26, 1746.

Mr. Burr, who also had a Latin School of his own in Newark, was
one of the charter members. Two years later, in Newark, the charter
was enlarged, and Mr. Burr was chosen president, Mr. Dickinson
having died. A class of seven, all of whom became ministers, gradu-
ated that year. Princeton College remained eight years in Newark,
and seven of these years Mr. Burr was both pastor and president,
serving in the latter capacity three years without salary, and contribu-
ting of his own means. He taught mathematics, calculated eclipses,
and published a Latin grammar, and, in 1752, delivered a Latin ora-
tion on the death of Doddridge; still acting as pastor. During the
stay of the college at Newark, ninety received the degree of A. B.

Whatever has been done since, the work of Mr. Burr in establish-
ing Princeton cannot be looked upon but with great honor. When
Princeton came down from Elizabethtown to Newark, it had not where
to lay its head. Mr. Burr's house was its home. Mrs. Burr was
introduced to two great interests, which focused in her family circle.
Contemporary records show that often she, with her little children
and very inefficient and unreliable help, had twenty housed under
her roof at one time.

Meantime, Mr. Burr was in New York soliciting funds and was
attending meetings of the Presbytery, was driving to Elizabethtown
to see the Governor of the Colony, was preaching and teaching as
though he was one of God's swift-winged ministers, with celestial
life. Small of stature, delicate in frame, quick as lightning in con-
ception, capable of great labors, modest, easy, courteous, obliging,
adored by his flock, who were reluctant to allow his departure; a
favorite with his brother ministers; he actually laid himself upon the
altar of sacrifice. Well may his dust and that of his heroic helpmate
sleep under Princeton shadows and be remembered in the days of her
glory.

76 THEODOSIA

The following account of the life and work of
the Rev. Aaron Burr is from the pen of Rev. Jon-
athan F. Stearns, D.D. (28) :

"Sept. 29, 1757. Last Saturday died the Rev. Mr. Aaron Burr,
President of the New Jersey College, a gentleman and a Christian,
as universally beloved as known; an agreeable companion, a faithful
friend, a tender and affectionate husband, and a good father; remark-
able for his industry, integrity, strict honesty and pure undissembled
piety; his benevolence as disinterested as unconfined; an excellent
preacher, a great scholar, and a very great man."

The glowing eulogy of William Livingston, supported by the plain,
unvarnished statements of Caleb Smith, and endorsed by the weighty
testimony of Benjamin Franklin, seems to have little more to be de-
sired in attestation of the genuine merit of the subject of its com-
mendation.

Mr. Burr's life was prolonged only one year after he left Newark.
He never presided at a commencement exercise at Princeton. In
the month of August, 1757, being then in a feeble state of health, he
made a hasty visit to his father-in-law, at Stockbridge, Massachu-
setts, and returning, hastened to Elizabethtown on some business with
the Government relating to the interests of the College. Here he
learned that his esteemed friend, the Rev. Caleb Smith, of Newark
Mountain, had just been bereaved of his wife. He hastened to mourn
with and console him; and, having no time to prepare a sermon,
preached extemporaneously a funeral discourse from the words, "Will-
ing rather to be absent from the body and to be present with
the Lord."

Still suffering from indisposition, he made a journey to Philadelphia
on business for the College, in that sultry season, and returned home
exhausted with fatigue and already the subject of an intermittent
fever, only to meet a new demand upon his exertions. His old friend,
the generous patron of the institution over which he presided, Gov-
ernor Belcher, had just deceased, and he was expected to do honor
to his memory in a funeral sermon. "You will not think it strange,"
says his excellent wife, after his decease, "if it has imperfections, when
I tell you that all he wrote on the subject was done in a part of one
afternoon and evening, when he had a violent fever on him, and the
whole night after he was irrational." Completing his preparations, he

The "Lower Green,'" Newark, New Jersey.

Nassau Hall, the foundation of Princeton University, of

which Col. Burr's father and grandfather

were Residents.

HER GRANDFATHER 77

rode forty miles to Elizabethtown, and preached the discourse before
a vast assembly, on Lord's day, Sept. 4. "It grieved his friends,"
says Mr. Smith, "to behold the languor of his countenance, and ob-
serve the failure of his harmonious delivery, not having strength for
that clear utterance or spirit, for that free, lively, animated address
with which he used to entertain and charm an audience." He returned
home, and his disorder soon took the form of a nervous fever, terminat-
ing his life on the 24th of September, 1757. He left the College in a
flourishing condition, and died in the very midst of a most powerful
display of Divine grace in the conversion of great numbers in that in-
stitution. It was a fearful stroke to the whole community.

On his deathbed Mr. Burr had given directions that no unnecessary
parade should be made at his funeral, and no expenses incurred beyond
what Christian decency would require. The sum necessary for the ex-
penses of a fashionable funeral, which by this order would be saved,
he directed should be given to the poor, out of his estate. His funeral
was attended amidst a large concourse of lamenting friends, and his
remains were interred at Princeton.

Mrs. Burr survived her husband less than a year, and died April 7,
1758. They left two children - - a daughter and a son — both born
during their residence in Newark, and both, it is presumed, baptized
within the pale of this church. The former was married to the Hon.
Tappan Reeve, of Litchfield, Conn., and the latter, having obtained
almost the highest rank in the nation - - the heir of his father's accom-
plishments, but not of his virtues - - lies buried at the feet of that
illustrious and sainted man, where, in filial reverence, he had desired
that his remains should be deposited.

The tombstone of Mr. Burr bears the following inscription, which
I copy, with the translation of it, from a pamphlet entitled "History
of the College of New Jersey, by a Graduate." It is said to have been
prepared by the Hon. William Smith, and revised by the Rev. Messrs.
Jacob Green and Caleb Smith :

Sacred to the Memory
of a most venerable man,

AARON BURR, A. M., President of the College of New

Jersev.

V

He was born of a good family at Fairfield, Conn., on the 4th of
January, A. D., 1716, O. S

78 THEODOSIA

He was educated at Yale College.

Commenced his ministry at Newark, in 1738.

He performed the pastoral office with fidelity about 20 years.

Accepted the Presidency of the College of New Jersey in 1748.

Being transferred to Nassau Hall at the close of 1756,

He died in this village on the 24th of September,

A. D. 1757, N. S.

Beneath this marble is laid all of him that could die;

His immortal part, Heaven has claimed —

Do you ask, Stranger, what he was ?

Hear in a few words:
He was a man of a small and weak body, spare with study,

watching, and constant labors, -

He had sagacity, penetration, quickness and despatch (if it be lawful

to say so) more than human, almost angelic.

He was skilled in all kinds of learning.

In theology he excelled.
He was a fluent speaker, pleasing and persuasive.

An accomplished orator.
In his manners, easy, frank, and cheerful;
In his life, remarkably liberal and beneficent.
His Piety and Benevolence outshined all other qualities.
Ah, how numerous and how excellent were his examples of
Genius, Industry, Prudence, Patience,

and all other virtues, —

The narrow sepulchral marble refuses to speak them.
Greatly regretted, and much beloved, he was the delight of

human kind.

O, the unspeakable regret!
The church groans, learning laments;

But Heaven applauds, while he

enters into the joy of his Lord, and

hears, well done good and faithful servant.

Stranger, go and remember thy latter end.

Another interesting remembrance of him is given
by one who was a tutor in Yale College, while Mr.
Burr was presiding at Nassau (29) :

I was intimately acquainted with President Burr, being tutor at

The First Presbyterian Church at Newark, New Jersey,

of which Col. Aaron Burr's father was, at

one time, pastor.

HER GRANDFATHER 79

Yale College during his presidency at Nassau. I have heard him
moderate at the comrnencement at Newark, 1754. He was a little
small man as to body, but of great and well improved mind. He was
elected president in 1748. He was a hard student, a good classical
scholar in the three learned tongues. He was well studied in logic,
rhetoric, and natural and moral philosophy, the belles lettres, history,
Divinity, and politics. He was an excellent divine and preacher, pious
and agreeable, facetious and sociable, the eminent Christian, and every
way the worthy man. Like St. Paul, his bodily presence was mean
and contemptible, but his mental presence charmed all his acquaint-
ances. He was an honor to his college and an ornament to the
republic of letters.

Rev. Aaron Burr was the author of a Latin gram-
mar, which was called "The Newark Grammar."
His only other work was entitled "The Supreme
Divinity of our Lord Jesus Christ.'

Another biographer says (30) :

President Burr had a slender and delicate frame; yet to encounter
fatigue he had a heart of steel. To amazing talents for the despatch
of business, he joined a constancy of mind that commonly secured to
him success. As long as an enterprise appeared possible, he yielded
to no discouragement. The flourishing state of the College of New
Jersey was much owing to his great and assiduous exertion. . . .

Few men were more perfect in the art of rendering themselves
more agreeable in company. He knew the avenues to the human
heart, and he possessed the rare power of pleasing without betraying
a design to please. . . .

He inspired all around him with cheerfulness. His arms were
open to good men of every denomination. A sweetness of temper,
obliging courtesy, and mildness of manner, joined to an engaging
candor of sentiment, spread a glory over his reputation and endeared
his person to all his acquaintances.

In Appleton's Encyclopaedia of American Biog-
raphy the following allusion is made to the Rev.
Aaron Burr:

"As a scholar, preacher, author, and educator,

80 THEODOSIA

President Burr was one of the foremost men of his
time. To his more solid qualities were added a
certain distinguished style of manner which re-ap-
peared in his son, Col. Aaron Burr. . . . Colonel
Burr's mother, Esther Edwards, the flower of the
remarkable family to which she belonged, was
celebrated for her beauty as well as for her superior
intellect and devoted piety. In the truest sense
Aaron was well born.':

Mr. W. Jay Mills gives a word picture of the
Parsonage at Newark, where the Rev. Aaron Burr
lived, and where his two children, Sally and Aaron,
were born (31):

At the corner of Broad and William streets there formerly stood
an old vine-covered building, with massive walls and wide window
sills, which perhaps in its day was the best loved and most venerated
residence in New Jersey. It is now but a fading memory to the
oldest Newark residents, for it was destroyed in 1835, just one century
after its erection. Few to-day remember the stories which cluster
about it and form one of the most interesting portions of the history
of the old borough.

Into its wide old hall, which echoed to the tread of hundreds of
^amous people before and during the Revolution, a sad-faced divine,
in black velvet elegance, leading by the hand a laughing girl in wedding
finery, came one bright morning in the long ago, when it was a new
dwelling and its history a blank page. They were the Rev. Aaron
Burr and his lady, as we read of them in old records, and to this new
home had come on their honeymoon. . . .

The Rev. Aaron Burr was at that time the president of the infant
College of New Jersey. It had been recently removed to Newark
from Elizabethtown. His wife, Esther, fourteen years his junior, was
the daughter of the noted Rev. Jonathan Edwards of Stockbridge,
Massachusetts, who subsequently, like his distinguished son-in-law,
became the head of New Jersey's seat of learning. Tradition asserts
that the marriage created much excitement in the sparsely populated
village of that day, and a faint echo of it has lived until the present

The Parsonage" at Newark, New Jersey,
where Col. Aaron Burr was born.

-

HER GRANDFATHER 81

century in a letter of one of the students of the college, who wrote
home to his "mammy" that he could not tell "Mrs. Burr's qualities
and properties, although he had heard she was a very valuable lady."
In one of the second-story rooms of the old house, this "valuable
lady" became the mother of the famous Aaron Burr, and the happy
woman, holding him as an infant, could never have dreamed of his
meteoric career in which misfortune and a degree of greatness were so
strangely mingled. The Burrs lived in the Parsonage until the re-
moval of the College of New Jersey to Princeton, in 1756, and its next
occupant was David Brainerd (?), a younger brother of the famous
missionary Brainerd.

The following article relating to the Rev. Aaron
Burr's account book appeared in a newspaper,
the name and date of which it has been impossible
to ascertain:

An article by the Rev. Paul Van Dyke, formerly a professor in the
Theological Seminary at Princeton, appears in the September number
of the Magazine of American History, and it throws many interesting
side-lights on the social condition of Colonial New Jersey. It is a
sketch of a recently discovered account book, kept by Rev. Aaron
Burr, second president of Princeton College, and father of Aaron
Burr, the noted vice-president, and antagonist of Alexander Hamilton.
As Princeton College was located at Newark from 1747 to 1756, many
of the entries in this curious old volume were made while their author
was living there as president of the College and pastor of the First
Presbyterian Church.

The worthy minister and his wife seem to have been compelled to
stretch as tightly as possible the lines of living, in order to "make
both ends meet," for Mr. Burr's salary was only two hundred and
thirty pounds a year. Yet the scanty stipend meant more than now,
and was eked out by various thrifty measures.

"For my sermon, one shilling, six pence," says one entry, and Mr.
Van Dyke exclaims with clerical honor, "Think of it, ye clerical pro-
fessors who grumble over moderate fees!" Mr. Van Dyke continues:
There was apparently a difference of rates, for there is an entry: "By
cash paid Mr. Tennent for preaching to Indians, .£4, Is. 8." Could
it have been that Indian preaching was worth more because of its

82 THEODOSIA

difficulty ? But possibly Mr. Tennent preached sixty -five and a third
sermons to the Indians, at the rate of one and three pence.

Mr. Burr also appears to have driven a small trade in books and
stationery. "To the Rev. Jonathan Edwards (his father-in-law) one
quire of paper, one shilling, three pence," is written in an unmistakably
feminine hand, probably his wife's. Translations, or in college ver-
nacular, "trots," were included in the sales, and a certain "translation
of Xenophon in two volumes" is frequently alluded to.

The account book was used also by Mrs. Burr for household ex-
penses, and it is amazing to see how the "400" of 1756 conducted
their establishments. The following is Mr. Van Dyke's account:

"A certain Edwards obtained a little more than four months board
at the presidential table for seven pounds, three shillings, four pence.
The Burrs bought beef at two pence a pound, ten pounds of cheese
for four shillings, tea at seven shillings a pound. A domestic servant
was hired at four shillings a week, a field laborer by the day at two
shillings, sixpence. A barrel of old cider cost eight shillings; six
bottles of wine, thirteen shillings, sixpence. They bought three horses
at prices ranging from fourteen pounds to twenty-two pounds; a cow
and a calf at four pounds, fifteen shillings. A black man was sold for
rather less than the good horse, and brought seventeen pounds, six-
pence."

Death closed this account, as it does every other, and the last
entries concern the distribution of the property which thrift and fru-
gality had collected. The legacies, as Mr. Van Dyke says, are a little
puzzling, but are interesting for that very reason, and they are inserted
here as Mr. Van Dyke has arranged them:

One finds it difficult to imagine what a "suit of Paduasoy" looks
like at a distance. How does a "brown Calimanco gown" differ from
"one lead colored Ducap ditto," beyond the difference in color?
And what is the distinction between a "Calimanco" and a "black
Allopeen"? Of course, anyone would tell a "corded Dimity with
flowered border" from a "copucheen flowered satin." But why
should an "old gauze hood" be accompanied by "two tan mounts"?

We understand that "one mask" was used to preserve Mrs. Presi-
dent's complexion, but what was the "one Vandyke cat-gutted"
which is mentioned with it ? Was the lawyer who made this inventory
assisted by his wife ? Aaron Burr was not forgotten in the distribution
of finery, for we find that he received "one silver watch, one pair of

HER GRANDFATHER 83

silver shoe-buckles, one pair ditto knee-buckles, and Mr. and Mrs.
Burr's pictures."

The strict economy of the worthy couple was not without its touch
of gilt on the edge, for they left "to Sally Burr," and "for the use of
the children," some sixty pounds' worth of silver plate.

Mr. Van Dyke makes a most delightful article out of this precious
find, but one inaccuracy is noticeable. He frequently speaks of Mr.
Burr as "Doctor," seemingly confounding the title V. D. M. (Verbi
Dei Minister), which corresponds to the title of Reverend, with the
title D. D. The first among the presidents at Princeton to receive
the honor of the latter title was Samuel Finley, on whom, in 1763, it
was bestowed by the University of Glasgow. He was the first Amer-
ican Presbyterian clergyman on whom the title was conferred. Since
his day all the presidents of Princeton have had the title.

A

CHAPTER VI

MRS. ESTHER EDWARDS BURR

BRIEF Account of Mrs. Esther Edwards
Burr, and Some Extracts of Letters Wrote
by Her/' appears in the volume published in Edin-
burgh (17):

Mrs. Burr exceeded most of her sex in the beauty of her person;
and in a decent and easy gesture, behavior, and conversation; not
stiff and starch on one hand, nor mean and indecent on the other, in
her unaffected natural freedom with persons of all ranks with whom
she conversed. Her genius was much more than common. She had
a lively, sprightly imagination, a quick and penetrating thought, and
a good judgment. She had a peculiar smartness in her make and
temper, which yet was consistent with pleasantness and good nature:
and she knew how to be pleasant and facetious without trespassing on
the bounds of gravity, or strict and serious religion. In short, she
seemed to be formed to please, and especially to please one of Mr.
Burr's tastes and talents, in whom he was exceedingly happy. But
what crowned all her excellencies and was her chief glory was her
religion. She was hopefully converted when she was seven or eight
years old; and she made a public profession of religion when she was
about fifteen years of age; and her conversation and conduct to her
death was exemplary as becometh godliness. But as her religious
sentiments and exercises will best be understood by those who were
strangers to her, by her own words, the following extracts are made
from letters which she wrote not long before her death.

The following is from a letter she wrote to her mother, not long
after Mr. Burr's death, dated at Princeton, October 7, 1757:

"No doubt, dear madam, it will be some comfort to you to hear
that God has not utterly forsaken, altho' he has cast down. I would

84

HER GRANDMOTHER * 85

speak it to the glory of God's name that I think He has in an uncom-
mon degree discovered Himself to be an all-sufficient God, a full
fountain of all good. Altho' all streams were cut off, yet the fountain
is left full.

"I think I have been enabled to cast my care upon Him, and have
found great peace and calm in my mind, such as this world cannot
give nor take. . . .

"God has helped me to renew my past and present mercies, with
some heart-affecting degree of thankfulness. . . .

"I must conclude with once more begging that as my dear parents
remember themselves, they would not forget their greatly afflicted
daughter, (now a lonely widow) nor her fatherless children.

"My duty to my ever dear and honored parents, love to my brothers
and sisters. From, dear madam,

'Your dutiful and affectionate daughter,

"ESTHER BURR."

She wrote to her father, on the 2d of November,
1757:

"Honored Sir:

'Your most affectionate, comforting letter by my brother, was
exceedingly refreshing to me, altho' I was something damped by
hearing that I should not see you until spring. . . .

"Since I wrote my mother's letter, God has carried me thro' great
trials, and given me new supports. My little son has been sick with
the slow fever ever since my brother left us, and has been brought to
the brink of the grave. But I hope in mercy God is bringing him up
again. I was enabled to resign the child (after a severe struggle with
nature) with the greatest freedom. God showed me that the child
was not my own, but His; and that He had a right to recall what He
had lent, whenever He thought fit, and I had no reason to complain,
or say God was hard with me. This silenced me. . . .

"God is certainly fitting me for Himself; and when I think it will
be soon that I shall be called hence, the thought is transporting."

The Hon. Milton William Reynolds was born
in Elmira, N. Y., May 23, 1833. He died at
Edmond, Oklahoma, August 9, 1890. He was grad-
uated from the University of Michigan in 1856.

86 THEODOSIA

He was a member of the Legislatures of Nebraska
and Kansas; Receiver of the United States Land
Office, at Independence, Kansas; and Regent of
the Kansas State University. He had just been
elected a member at large of the first State Legisla-
ture of Oklahoma at the time of his death, which
was caused by nervous prostration, superinduced
by a most exciting political campaign. He was a
journalist by profession and well known in Kansas
and Oklahoma under the nom de plume of "Kick-
ing Bird.'

From a lecture delivered by him on Aaron Burr,
the selection wThich follows relating to Esther Ed-
wards is taken:

Nearly a century and a half ago, in the quiet village of Stockbridge,
lived Esther Edwards. She was the daughter of the great Jonathan
Edwards, who wrote the Principia of New England theology. This
stern and inflexible disciple of Calvinistic faith was the leader of that
school of theology which expanded the brain and nursed and nurtured
the conscience, but benumbed the affections and dwarfed the sensi-
bilities. With his ten children, Jonathan Edwards was so poor that
while writing his treatise on the Will, with difficulty he obtained the
paper to impress his immortal and divine thoughts thereon, and the
printer had to receive them, transcribed in faultless chirography upon
the backs of letters and blank pages from cast-away pamphlets. His
daughter made lace and painted fans and sent them to Boston to obtain
means to aid in the scanty support of the family. At the age of twenty
years, while Esther Edwards, the third of these charming and indus-
trious daughters, was working more deftly than usual with her lily-
white fingers, there came to this country village, then on the edge of the
wilderness, a man already renowned as a theologian; and he bent over
her, or by her side sat and watched her skillful fingers weave the beauti-
ful lace and decorate the gauzy fan paper. He staid but three days at
Stockbridge. It was meet that he should go about his Father's business.

But Esther Edwards wove no more lace and painted no more fans
for the fair Boston ladies thereafter. The Rev. Aaron Burr had

HER GRANDMOTHER 87

called her to be his wife, and she became the mother of Aaron Burr,
the weird, mystic, and mysterious man whose life has been a stupen-
dous enigma, and whose history is worthy of study for warning, for
reproof, for admiration, for commiseration and pity. . . .

One of the college students, in a letter to the New York Gazette,
July 20, 1752, mentions the event as follows: "In the latter end of
May the President took a journey into New England, and during his
absence he made a visit of but three days to the Rev. Mr. Edwards'
daughter at Stockbridge; in which short time, though he had no ac-
quaintance with, nor had ever seen, the lady these six years, I suppose
he accomplished his whole design; for it was not above a fortnight
after his return here, before he sent a young fellow (who came out of
college last fall) into New England to conduct her and her mother
down here. They came to town on Saturday evening, the 27th ult.,
and on the Monday evening following the nuptial ceremonies were
celebrated between Mr. Burr and the young lady. As I have yet no
manner of acquaintance with her, I cannot describe to you her quali-
fications and properties. However, they say she is a very valuable
lady. I think her a person of great beauty, though I must say she is
rather too young (being twenty-one years of age) for the President.
This account you will doubtless communicate to mammy, as I know
she has Mr. Burr's happiness much at heart."

Dr. Banks thus refers to her (11):

The family of Edwards, when he went to Stockbridge, included ten
children, one daughter having died (Jerusha). Two of the older
daughters were married about the time when their father's difficulties
wTere at their height — Mary, at the age of sixteen, and Sarah, at the
age of twenty -two — events which must have called off his mind from
his troubles, and renewed his interest in the changes and chances of
this mortal life. Of the daughters who went with him to Stockbridge,
Esther was one, to whose beauty, inherited from both parents, as well
as her intellectual brightness, tradition bears ample testimony. She
had attracted the attention of the Rev. Aaron Burr, a noted personage
in those aristocratic days, and to Stockbridge the devoted lover followed
her, gaining her consent to matrimony in a short courtship. Mr. Burr
was a man of brilliant qualities, who had recently been called to the
presidency of Nassau Hall — what was afterwards to become known
as Princeton College.

88 THEODOSIA

There were two children from this union, one of them a boy, named
after his father, Aaron Burr, who became the famous, and later the
infamous, Aaron Burr, who occupies so peculiar a place in American
history.

In the latter part of 1903 a book was published
entitled "Esther Burr's Journal.' A review of
the work appeared in a Boston newspaper (32) :

The name on the title page of the little book purporting to be the
diary of Esther Edwards Burr, the daughter of Jonathan Edwards, is
that of Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Eames Rankin, who describes himself as
"author and editor." Dr. Rankin, who resigned the presidency of
Howard University last March, and who, before holding that position,
had a pastorate for a time in Orange, puts the "Journal" forward
without explanation. At the end of the volume is a brief "final note,"
including the following extract from "The Life of Jonathan Edwards":

She (Esther Edwards Burr) exceeded most of her sex in the beauty
of her person, as well as in her behavior and conversation. She dis-
covered an unaffected, natural freedom toward persons of all ranks
with whom she conversed. She had a lively, sprightly imagination,
a quick, penetrating discernment, and a good judgment. . . . She
left a number of manuscripts, and it was hoped that they would be
made public, but they are now lost.

Most of the " Journal " as it now appears was written by Dr. Rankin,
who for years had been interested in the Burr and Edwards families.
The diary, entries in which were jotted down from time to time for
his own entertainment, became before long a narrative covering
practically all Esther Edwards Burr's life. Dr. Rankin gave readings
from the "Journal" on certain occasions, and had its publication
in mind. About two years after the "Journal" had taken form,
Dr. Rankin, by a circumstance as strange as it was fortuitous,
had access to a diary, yellow with age, which he had every reason to
believe was written by Esther Burr. The request was made of Dr.
Rankin that he withhold the source of his information, but he was
given the privilege of using certain of the facts. Hence the dual role
of author and editor, and the lack of an answer in the book itself of
the question of the authority of the " Journal " which is raised in the
mind of the reader.

HER GRANDMOTHER 89

It may be that before long some exact statement will be made, not
only as to the extent Dr. Rankin has drawn on original documents,
but also as to the location of these documents, and the publication of
the supposed authentic diary may follow. In the meantime, "Esther
Burr's Journal " as put forward by Dr. Rankin, is of interest as depict-
ing with much art the life of a prominent woman of the eighteenth
century. That it is based on familiarity with family history is assured
from Dr. Rankin's well-known researches into the subject, and whether
the solid basis for the diary is large or small, the material is handled
with great ingenuity.

The following extracts are taken from the work
in question (33) :

This is my ninth birthday, and Mrs. Edwards, my mother, has had
me stitch these sundry sheets of paper into a book to make me a journal.
Methinks, almost all this family keep journals; though they seldom
show them.

Mr. Samuel Hopkins, who has just been graduated from New Haven
College, and who pleads to study divinity with Mr. Edwards, came
to our house to-day. . . . We girls, Jerusha, Mary and I, seeing his
immense frame, his great honest face, and hearing his ponderous voice,
have maliciously nick-named him "Old Sincerity." Mother shakes
her head at us and puts her finger on her lips.

Mrs. Edwards was thirty-three years old to-day. That seems very
old. I wonder if I shall live to be thirty-three. And Mr. Edwards
is forty-seven years older than she. ... I do not think we girls will
ever be so saintly as our mother is. ... I do not know as I want to
be, which is very wicked I am sure. I think that perhaps Sarah may;
she is the flower of this family.

A flaming young preacher, just from the college at New Haven,
has come to town. He preaches every day, and twice a day. . . . My
precious mother, though she would gladly conceal it, is not a little
exercised to see the people flocking after the young herald of the Cross,
as though they never heard preaching before. His name is Buell,
and he is a classmate in college of Samuel Hopkins.

Mr. Buell will stay the second week and then Mr. Hopkins will go

90 THEODOSIA

with him, as a kind of armor-bearer, or lieutenant, to Boston, to cap-
ture that city for the Lord.

If father ever gets low-spirited from his "humors" as he calls
them, mother's voice is to him like medicine, as David's harp was to
King Saul. And when she once begins, there is Sarah, and Jerusha,
and myself, like the ascending pipes of an organ, ready to unite in
making a joyful noise to the Lord, all over the house, so that our home
is more like an aviary than the dwelling of a Colonial parson.

My mother says my journal thus far is rather stilted and mature
for me; though everything in the family is mature. I have a letter
of my father's written when he was younger than I am, which shows
where the present writer gets her maturity.

I have just been caring for my mocking-bird, who is now rewarding
me with a song. The cat was lurking in the hall, and I have just
driven her away with the broom, with which I have been sweeping the
living-room.

I have just come back from a most wonderful ride with my honored
father, Mr. Edwards, through the spring woods. He usually rides
alone. But to-day he said he had something he wanted to show me.
The forests between the house and the full-banked river were very
beautiful. The wild cherry and the dogwood were in full bloom. The
squirrels were leaping from tree to tree, and the birds were making
a various melody. . . . When we reached the "Indian's Well," I
slid off and brought a birch-bark cup of crystal water for father to
drink. But not before I had given myself a great surprise. For,
having put on my mother's hat in sport, the first reflection in the dark
water seemed to be the face of my mother instead of my own.

My mother has just come into the house with a bunch of sweet
peas, and put them on the stand where my honored father is shaving,
though his beard is very slight. . . . My honored father, of course,
has not time to give attention to the garden, and so Mrs. Edwards
looks after everything there.

Rev. Samuel Hopkins, my father's student in theology, has some
very strong opinions against slavery. He once said to my father that he
believed God would yet overrule for his glory, and the coming of the

HER GRANDMOTHER 91

blacks to this country; quoting what Joseph said: "Ye meant it for
evil, but God meant it for good."

The Rev. Samuel Hopkins has just paid us a short visit. A very
strong attachment has sprung up between this young preacher and
my honored father. Indeed, I believe he has made my father and
mother his confidants in a certain affair of the heart, which relates to
himself. A certain young lady in Northampton - - none of the Ed-
wards girls - - is the object of this attachment, and alas, it is not suc-
cessful. It gives us girls a great theme.

Mr. Edwards, my father, is feeling much hurt because President
Clap and the trustees have treated Mr. Brainerd so shabbily and
cruelly. My father says, as I think, New Haven College has lost the
brightest jewel she will ever wear in her crown. Mr. Brainerd was
expelled from the college for saying of one of the tutors, who seemed
indifferent to religious activity, that he had no more religion than a
chair.

Mr. Brainerd is likely to become a member of this family, it seems.
Soon after coming to Northampton, he displayed strong affinity for
Jerusha, our sister of seventeen, who was soon inoculated with his
high spiritual views, and deeply interested in his Indian work. . . .
I believe he loves her more because she will make a good missionary
than for any other reason. But little does the dear girl care.

Feb. 13, 1747. I was awakened in the morning by some one's
kissing me on my eyes and my mouth and my ears. In the haze of my
morning dreams, I thought it might be the angels. But no, I soon
saw that it was my angel-mother, and she was half saying and half
singing: "Awake, my Esther, my queen. This is the day of thine
espousals. For the King delighteth in thee and calleth thee by name.
He brings thee to His banquetting-house and His banner over thee is
love." Then I remembered it was my fifteenth birthday, and also that
I was that day to take upon me the vows of God.

Jerusha has just returned from her sojourn in Boston with her sick
charge, David Brainerd, the Indian missionary. They came by easy
stages, but he is much exhausted, and I believe is not long for this
world. Never was there such devotion, shall I say idolatry, bestowed
upon mortal man. Never was there so humble a handmaid of the

92 THEODOSIA

Lord as Jerusha. . . . Her whole nature goes out after spiritual
things, and this man is her ideal. She actually almost worships the
ground he treads upon.

The sainted sufferer of the house, our temporary guest, our brother
in the Lord, has at length breathed his last. . . . To our Jerusha, his
long-time nurse, who has watched and almost felt every pang of his
poor racked body, for many months, he said : " Dear Jerusha, are you
willing to part with me ? I am quite willing to part with you. Though
if I thought I should not see you and be happy with you in another
world, I could not bear to part with you. But we will spend a happy
eternity together."

Of course my honored father preached the discourse at Mr. Brain-
erd's funeral. His text was: "Absent from the body, but present with
the Lord." . . . Dear Jerusha's illuminated face was a study. She
was rapt up no more in the living. It seemed as though her soul,
liberated from earth, was already mounting up to holy communion
with the spirits of the just made perfect. ... It seemed to me as
though she saw heaven open, the golden gates lifted up, and was only
waiting for the angel-wings to mount there. She is not long for this
world. For exactly nineteen weeks, day and night, she has cared for
this sick man; and she only eighteen.

This day our dear Jerusha died at eighteen. If, as she and her
sainted David and we all believe, she be gone to her Father's house,
she has already joined the holy company, of which he since last October
has been one. They have been separated only five months. Though
I doubt whether he has ever been absent from her thoughts and longing
love.

Great excitement has been occasioned by a New Year's sleigh-ride
and ball for dancing, that has just occurred here. It was a gay party
of young people, some of my more intimate friends among them, who
drove to a hotel in Hadley, and spent the hours till midnight in dancing
the Old Year out and the New Year in. ... To my honored father
and mother it has been a time of great grief. And when, with morning
light, the great sled-loads drove up through the streets, with their
laughing, giddy freight, I saw the tears in the eyes of them both.

We have just been permitted to read Richardson's novel: "Sir

HER GRANDMOTHER 93

Charles Grandison." Our father and mother have first read it and
regard it as a wholly suitable book as to morals and character. . . .
Of course to read such a book is an unusual event in such a family
of ours. And we have had a great time taking it in turn and discussing
its characters.

This day we leave dear, sweet Northampton, where all of us have
been born, and where we have so many ties of childhood and youth.
Even the very trees around our home seem a part of us. There is one
elm that is called my father's, he has so long studied beneath it. . . .
One of the bitterest experiences connected with this removal is the fact
that some of the active instigators of it are actually flesh of our flesh,
and blood of our blood.

Nothing could be more beautiful than the manner in which Mr.
and Mrs. Edwards have submitted to the decision of the Council
with its majority of only one, recommending our removal from this
place. We children have been indignant beyond expression.

A letter to Mr. Edwards, my honored father, from Mr. Burr, states
that the New Jersey College was organized under an enlarged charter
Nov. 9, and that he has been chosen President to succeed Mr. Dickin-
son, who has lately died. For the present he will serve without salary.

It is the practice of Mr. Edwards to finish his own meal, which is
always very simple, and then return to the table to say grace, at the
close, when we are all done. This morning, as he did not come at
once, my dear mother, who always herself says grace when father is
absent from home, said that Jonathan Edwards, Jr., who is just past
eight years old, might officiate. This pleased us all. For he fell into
father's exact words and intonations, as a child would do, without
seeming to intend it. ... As to Jonathan, Jr., we all expect that
some day he will make a great divine; though outwardly he does not
resemble our father, being dark, and plain, and very small.

I have just come in from West Stockbridge road, with my cheeks
all aglow and pulse beating wildly. My sister and I had two Indian
boys to pull our sleds for us, and to guide them over the crust, which
flashes like a mirror, as with lightning rapidity we speed from one
descent to another, until we finally reach the level of our quiet street.

Even Stockbridge has my honored father's enemies. . . . Not

94 THEODOSIA

Indians, but the scattered remnants of that bitter company who moved
my father from Northampton.

My father has just written to his own father: "My wife and children
are well pleased with our present situation. They like the place far
better than they expected. Here, at present, we live in peace; which
has, of a long time, been unusual to us. The Indians feel much
pleased with our family, especially my wife."

Very improper use has been made of the moneys which have been
sent here by Mr. Hollis, the English patron of the Indian schools.
The individual who has received these moneys has had no school
established, and kept no regular account of his expenditures. The
Indian children have been permitted to grow up in filth and ignorance.
But as this man has married into the family of a resident trustee, all
of this is covered up. But, of course, Mr. Edwards feels bound in
duty to communicate the facts to the Boston commissioners.

Miss Sally Prince of Boston, whose father is a great friend of my
father's, and who is herself a great friend of mine, has been writing
me about the sports of the winter in that city. With us simple country
people, the chief place of social recreation and amusement is the
singing-school. . . . Sometimes, indeed, we have sleighing parties,
and those who love dancing finish up such parties with a social dance.
Though my honored father believes that such customs are full of
danger to young people.

This family is very busy making lace and embroidery, so as to
replenish the household treasury. In Northampton my honored
father had purchased a valuable homestead, with land for fuel and
pasturing, and had erected a commodious dwelling house. These
had, by our exercising the strictest economy, all been paid for, before
his removal. Among the bitterest of our experiences, therefore, was
to be sent roofless and homeless to a wilderness. . . . He has lately
had a hexagonal table built, with six several inclining leaves, so that
he can have his books of reference before his eyes all at once, and
can leave them open at the passage where he leaves off.

A new sound echoes through our hills. Every Sabbath day, and
every lecture day, one of the praying Indians blows a conch-shell, to
call the people to worship. At first it seemed wanting in solemnity,

HER GRANDMOTHER 95

but, now we are used to it, the shell begins to have a sacred sound and
the summons is speedily heeded.

This has just happened to me: Rev. Mr. Burr, of Newark, Presi-
dent of the New Jersey College, who has visited our house both in
Northampton and Stockbridge for many years - - as a little girl I
have romped with him and sat on his lap - - rose this A. M. to take
an early breakfast and start for home again, betimes, on horse-back
to the Hudson. And, as it was my week to care for the table, I had
spread the breakfast for him, no other member of the family having
yet arisen. The cloth was as white as snow, for I had taken out a
fresh one with its clean smell, for the occasion, and there was not a
crease in it; the room was full of the aroma of the freshly made tea.
I had selected some of the last caddy, that came from the Rev. Thomas
Prince's of Boston, a family very dear to us. The newly churned
butter was as yellow as gold. I had rolled it and stamped it with my
own hands. And to top the whole, one of our father's deacons, an
Indian who knew of Mr. Burr's early start, had brought in some fish,
freshly taken from the Housatonic. Mr. Burr partook with the greatest
relish, keeping up a current of gracious speech every moment; and
finally, fixing his flashing eyes on me, as I sat rapt and listening at the
other end of the board, he abruptly said: "Esther Edwards, last night
I made bold to ask your honored father, if I can gain your consent,
that I might take you as Mrs. Burr, to my Newark bachelor's quarters,
and help convert them into a Christian home. What say you?" . . .
I was wholly unprepared for this sudden speech and blushed to my
ears and looked down, and stammered out, as we are taught to say
here: "If it please the Lord." Though when we came to separate,
I could not help playfully saying: "Was it the loaves and fishes, Mr.
Burr?" He laughed and kissed me for the first time. . . . My dear
mother appeared to surmise the new secret of my life, for doubtless,
Mr. Edwards had told her, as they have no secrets from each other,
but said nothing. ... I could not help asking myself: "Has he been
waiting for me all these years ?"

The pressure of duties upon Mr. Edwards, my honored father, has
been so great that it seems almost impossible for him to endure it.
. . . My honored mother is fearful that his health will be utterly
broken down. Indeed, he already has the symptoms of ague and
fever, which is very prevalent in these new settlements.

96 THEODOSIA ••

This is my last day in Stockbridge, in this dear home with my
honored mother and sisters. The orchards are filled with apple-
bloom, as for a bride. Dear, beautiful Stockbridge; the sweetest
place on earth, with her mountains tree-topped to the blue skies, her
miniature meadows along the Housatonic, where the Indians have
their picturesque encampments.

I have sometimes essayed a description to myself of Mr. Edwards.
Let me do it again before I leave my father's house for the house of
my husband. His face is almost womanly in refinement and feature,
and grace. There is a kind of sweet sedateness, an elevated, almost
celestial serenity, to some, perhaps, severity of expression. And when
he is speaking in the pulpit, it often seems that his voice has a super-
natural, and angelic tenderness and authority. There is in his utter-
ance no weakness or softness, though it is not a loud voice nor very
masculine.

The good man who has chosen me for his bride has sent a young
messenger from Newark, with two horses, to conduct my honored
mother and myself to New Jersey. He says there is plenty of scrip-
ture for it. Did not Isaac thus send for Rebekah ? I am to ride
Nimrod, Mr. Burr's great admiration and pride. I am glad to go.
... I hope it is not wrong to feel so. I had to kiss the bark of the
elm tree that stands in front of my window, and where I have so often
watched the returning robins, as they built their nests and reared their
young, and then taught them to fly away; and now I am to stretch my
wings and go, after their example.

This day I was married to the man who has chosen me for his
helpmate in the Lord. . . . He is my senior in years, but is young and
elastic in spirit, full of Christian enterprise. Though short in stature,
compared with my honored father, who is very tall; and though of a
delicate frame like my father, he is all energy and zeal, moving here
and there and everywhere, almost like a flash of light. And yet he
is modest and unassuming; though everywhere at his ease; courteous
too, and obliging to all.

My husband, Mr. Burr, has persuaded me to take up Latin with
hi'". I had learned it a little in our home at Northampton, where
there was much teaching of the classics.

HER GRANDMOTHER 97

It has been a great refreshment to my soul to-day to hear again Mr.
Edwards, my honored father, from the pulpit. I still think there is
none like him. . . . There are those in two continents who honor and
revere his name, though Northampton, in her worldly pride, cast him
out and spat upon him. ... I shall yet live to see how humbly some
of those people will return with confession and tears. Though this
is not becoming in a minister's daughter and a minister's wife.

Sometimes our colored man, Harry, who is very conceited about his
skill as a horseman, drives Mr. Burr on his trips, but at this season of
the year, the roads are so unsettled, Mr. Burr prefers the saddle.

I have had a sweet and precious letter from my own dear and honored
mother, full of sympathy and appreciation. . . . This was in answer
to a letter in which I had intimated a happy secret, which is gladdening
our Newark home.

The first year of my married life I often found myself comparing
Mr. Burr, my good husband, with Mr. Edwards, my honored father.
... I think my father more impressive and solemn; but Mr. Burr
is more ingratiating and captivating; has more of what people call
eloquence. My honored father has such rigid and intense earnestness,
that he is led almost to scorn all adornment of discourse. While of
late years, writing on his abstract treatises, and preaching largely to
the Indians of Stockbridge, who are but little demonstrative, he has
grown more and more careless of outward grace. Besides, he is by
nature more reserved. Mr. Burr's nature seems to bubble up and
overflow into expression. . . . Since 1738, beginning with his twenty-
third year, he has been pastor here.

This day is the appointed day for our wood carting. The farmers
in our parish bring load after load of wood from the parsonage .lot,
and it is chopped up in the yard and made ready for the fire-pUce.
Such a day of confusion it has been! Such a noise of driving oxen, I
hope we may never have for a twelve month at least.

Next week the Presbytery is to sit here, and it is expected they wil1
dismiss Mr. Burr from the church and congregation, to give himself
wholly to the care of the college. It is a severe strain upon us all.
For here, as I have said before, he is almost idolized.

Extremely hurried preparations for the Presbytery. Tuesday pro-

98 THEODOSIA

vided a dinner and nobody came until afternoon. Enough to try a
body's patience. In the evening they carne thick and fast. The
Presbytery sat on our affairs and adjourned till January. Our people
are in a great pickle. Some of them show a very bad spirit.

I have written to Miss Prince of Boston to please procure for me
the following things: 6 fan mounts, two good ones for ivory sticks, two
black and white and two white ones; J pound gum arabic, one large
pencil and one short one, one dozen of short cake pans, my milk-pot
altered to some shape or other, a pair of coral beads, some cod-fish,
patterns of caps. Send me word how to cut ruffles and handkerchiefs;
send word how they make gowns. I send by Mr. Burr.

Just now I received a letter with a black seal, but it contained
blacker news. Governor Belcher is dead; died this A. M. The
righteous are taken away from the evil to come. This is such a loss
that we cannot expect to have made up in a Governor. I feel quite
sunk with this and other bad news. His Lordship is returning to
New York, and then Halifax will be taken no doubt.

Mr. Burr has not returned. Heavy news Mr. Belcher's death will
be to him.

Sally has got pretty hearty again and is not much of a baby; affects
to be thought a woman. Nothing she scorns more than to be told she
is a child or baby. We are about sending her to school, but Mr. Burr
expects she will prove a numb head. But for my part, I think her
about middling in all accounts. She grows thinner and more shape-
able. I have taken her to meeting and she behaves very well, and can
give a good account of what papa does there. She can say some of
Dr. Watts' verses by heart and the Lord's Prayer and some other
prayers. But she is not over apt about the matter.

Aaron is a little, dirty, noisy boy, very different from Sally almost
in everything. He begins to talk a little, is very sly, mischievous, and
has more sprightliness than Sally. I must say he is handsomer, but
not so good tempered. He is very resolute and requires a good gov-
ernor to bring him to terms.

My dear husband, Mr. Burr, is preparing a funeral discourse in
memory of Governor Belcher, of Elizabethtown, who died August 31.
I have besought him to spare himself the undertaking. To-day he

HER GRANDMOTHER 99

has been getting the sermon ready, and to-morrow he will ride forty
miles to deliver it, when he should be lying upon a sick bed and nursed
with the greatest care at home. I fear the worst.

Mr. Burr has returned, but, alas, his fever, which was at first an
intermitent kind, has settled into one affecting the brain, and he is
much of the time in delirium.

My loss, shall I attempt to describe it? God only can know.
What can be written to set forth the affliction of a poor disconsolate
widow and two fatherless ones ? I have lost all that could be desired
in a creature. I have lost all that I ever set my heart on in this world.

My honored father's letter was so affectionate; comforting, and
refreshing, that I shall transcribe it in my journal:

TUT , i , STOCKBRIDGE, Nov. 20, 1757.

My dear daughter:

I thank you for your most comfortable letter; but more especially
would I thank God that He has granted you such thoughts to write.
How good and kind is your Heavenly Father! . . . Perpetual sunshine
is not usual in this world, even to God's true saints. But I hope if
God should hide His face in some respect, even this will be in faith-
fulness to you, to purify you, and fit you for yet further and better
light. . . .

Timmy is considerably better, though yet very weak. We all unite
in love to you, Lucy, and your children. Your mother is very willing
to leave Lucy's coming away wholly to you and to her. I am, your

most tender and affectionate father,

JONATHAN EDWARDS.

I must copy this letter, too, from my dear widowed mother to poor
widowed me; yes, and my two fatherless ones:

,T , , ., , STOCKBRIDGE, April 3, 1758.

My dear child:

A holy and a good God has covered me with a dark cloud. O that
we may kiss the rod, and lay our hands upon our mouths! The Lord
has done it. He has made me adore His goodness, that we have had
him so long. But my God lives and He has my heart. O what a
legacy my husband and your father has left us. We are all given to
God, and there I am, and love to be.

Your ever affectionate mother,

SARAH EDWARDS.

d
T

1 J 9 f>

JL .*' *J *„

100 THEODOSIA

Dr. Rankin died in 1904. Who has possession
of the "diary yellow with age' is not known, and
it is not probable that it will ever be published in
full.

No mention is made in 'Esther Burr's Journal'
that Miss Esther had a lover before the advent of
the Rev. Aaron Burr; in fact, the following words
occur in her supposed diary: 'I am only seventeen
and I had not received such attention from any
person," but Miss Crawford, in a most interesting
work, devotes a chapter to The Wooing of Esther
Edwards" (34).

Of the beautiful family life of the Edwardses we catch several
charming glimpses from the diary of the Rev. Joseph Emerson, of
East Pepperell, Massachusetts. Ten children, a fair proportion of
them girls, had come to bless the union of these two rarely idealistic
spirits, and with one of these the Rev. Joseph Emerson fell desperately
in love, when in the course of a return journey after Yale commence-
ment he stayed for a few days at Northampton. Under date of Sep-
tember 17, 1748, we find in Mr. Emerson's journal this, his first
reference to the family of his beloved one: "In Wethersfield we met
with Mr. Edwards, of Northampton, and concluded to go home with
him the beginning of next week by the leave of Providence. We
stopped and dined at Hartford and called at Windsor upon Mr. Ed-
wards, father to Mr. Edwards of Northampton, where we were over
persuaded to tarry over the Sabbath. . . .

"Tues. 20. Arrived at Northampton before night.

"Wed. 21. Spent the day very pleasantly: the most agreeable
family I was ever acquainted with: much of the presence of God here.

"Sat. Oct. 1. I wrote two letters m the forenoon, one to Mr.
Edwards of Northampton, the other to his second daughter, a very
desirous person to whom I propose, by divine leave, to make my
addresses. May the Lord direct me in so important an affair!"

What answer Mr. Emerson received to his letter, the diary does not
tell, but one fancies that it was not altogether encouraging. Yet on
the principle that faint heart never won fair lady, we find the Pepperell

HER GRANDMOTHER 101

minister soon setting out again for Northampton, to plead in person
his suit with the girl, then only fifteen years old, who had captivated
his fancy. The diary reads:

"Mon. Nov. 7. Set out some time before day on a journey to
Northampton to visit Mistress Esther Edwards to treat of Marriage. . . .

"Wed. 9. Got safe to Northampton: obtained the liberty of the
house. . . .

'Thurs. 10. I spent chief of the day with Mistress Esther, in whose
company the more I am the greater value I have for her.

"Frid. 11. The young lady being obliged to be from home, I spent
the day in copying off something remarkable Mr. Edwards hath lately
received from Scotland. Spent the evening with Mistress Esther.

"Sat. 12. Spent part of the day upon the business I came about.

"Mon. 14. I could not obtain from the young lady the least
encouragement: the chief objection she makes is her youth, which I
hope will be removed with time. I hope the disappointment will be
sanctified to me, and that the Lord will by his providence order it so
that this will be my companion for life. I think I have followed
Providence, not gone before it."

Yet this Rev. Joseph Emerson was not a lover to be despised. He
himself came of a priestly family, and one of his line afterwards made
Concord as famous as Jonathan Edwards had made Northampton.
Though but twenty-four at the time he went forth in the hope of
bringing home Esther Edwards as his bride, he had already been to
Louisburg as chaplain of Sir William Pepperell's expedition, and had
preached for some time in the town he had caused to be named in
honor of that doughty warrior. That his love for Esther Edwards,
then a maiden of fifteen, had in it something of the exaltation to be
observed in her father's love for her mother, we cannot doubt. Cer-
tainly it was only after repeated rebuffs from the girl and strenuous
struggles with himself that this country parson ceased to press his
suit, and reluctantly gave up for all time whatever hope he may have
cherished that Esther Edwards would tell him "yes."

The entries in the diary continue for many months to dwell upon
the desire of this godly youth's heart.

'Thurs. Nov. 17. I came home to my lodgings. I was consid-
erably melancholy under my disappointment at Northampton; con-
cluded notwithstanding, by leave of Providence, to make another trial
in the spring.

102 THEODOSIA

"Sat. 19. So discomposed I could not study. I could not have
thought that what I have lately met with would have had this effect.
The Lord hath put me in a very good school. I hope I shall profit
by it.

"Mon. Dec. 5. I wrote two letters to Northampton, one to dear
Mistress Esther Edwards, who I find ingrosseth too many of my
tho'ts, yet some glimmering of hope supported my spirits.

"Sat. March 11. Read something. Received a letter from Mrs.
Sarah Edwards who entirely discourages me from taking a journey
there to see her daughter, who is so near my heart. I am disappointed.
The Lord teach me to profit: may I be resigned."

It is not to be supposed, however, that while this good youth was
suffering so severely from the pangs of disappointed love, things were
altogether easy and happy in that family which occupied his thoughts.
Mrs. Edwards' journal about this date betrays occasional apprehen-
sions. For though the church at Northampton was undoubtedly very
proud of its gifted pastor, the crowds still hung upon his lips, there
was brewing, just at this time, one of those curious church dissensions
to be condoned only after the lapse of so many years that one can see
both sides of the controversy. Up to the year 1744 Mr. Edwards
retained a firm hold upon the confidence and affections of his people.
During that year was sown the seed that ripened into hostility and
ultimately led to his dismissal.

CHAPTER VII

COLONEL AARON BURR

IT is not intended at this time to devote much
space to a consideration of the life, character,
and deeds of the subject of this chapter. He was
connected with so many important events in the
history of the Colonies and the United States, and
so many forgotten facts have been discovered since
his death, that a proper presentation and consider-
ation of them could not be given in a single volume.
However it might be expanded, such a work, if
written, would have this great disadvantage - - that
the different epochs in his life would be merged in
a continuous story, and when that was completed,
it would be exceedingly difficult for the reader to
go back and separate the circumstances connected
with any one epoch, so that he could form an in-
telligent judgment of it, independent of other con-
siderations.

For this reason, in writing the present 'Life of
Colonel Aaron Burr," and, incidentally, including
many events in the lives of his contemporaries, it
has been deemed best to forsake the usual chrono-
logical method and adopt the plan of presenting
his life by the chief events therein.

Adopting this plan, a volume will be devoted to
"The Presidential Tie in 1800"; another to "The

103

104 THEODOSIA

Burr-Hamilton Duel." The story of "The Blen-
nerhassetts and the Southwestern Conspiracy' will
be segregated, so far as possible, from other events
in his life. The Heroes of the Revolution' will
afford a medium for a thorough consideration of
his military life. His private character will be con-
sidered in a volume entitled "Social Life During
the Revolution and the Early Days of the Republic.'1
Probably no American, not excepting Washing-
ton, has had so much space devoted to him by biog-
raphers and historians, or has been made more
often the subject of articles in newspapers and
magazines, as Aaron Burr. Orators have dwelt
upon what they considered to be his virtues and
his vices, and the number of works of fiction and
romance in which he has figured as the principal
character far exceed those devoted to any other
American. Selections from them will form a vol-
ume to be entitled "Aaron Burr in Literature.'5
The present trend of thought as regards him will
be fully considered in a volume entitled "A Cen-
tury Later. " From the great mass of material
collected from all available sources will then be
presented the consensus of opinion regarding Burr
as a husband, father, gentleman, soldier, lawyer,
politician, and statesman. This volume will contain
not only the opinions of his best friends, but those
of his most bitter enemies. The final volume will
consider 'Aaron Burr- -the Man." All that has
been said, and probably all that could be said, to
his detriment will be presented. It will then de-
volve upon the author of this volume to sum up
the evidence and present it to the American public,

HER FATHER 105

which will be called upon as a grand jury to regis-
ter the final verdict on the grandson of Jonathan
Edwards. The last volume will include a full pres-
entation of authorities and references made use of
in all the volumes, a topical index, a bibliography
of all works and articles relating to Colonel Burr,
and biographical sketches of those persons whose
ideas, opinions, or knowledge have been made use
of or referred to in the previous volumes.

It would be unfair to the reader of the present
volume if the principal events in the life of Colonel
Burr w^ere not presented in some form. For that
reason it has been deemed best to provide a con-
densed summary, a chronological record, or what
might be appropriately called a bird's-eye view of
his life, covering the period from 1756 to 1836.

Mr. William Eleroy Curtis, in his work entitled
'The True Thomas Jefferson," presents what he
calls 'A Jeffersonian Calendar.'1 Following the
same analogy, there is presented herewith

A BURRIAN CALENDAR

1756. Aaron Burr, Jr., was born February 6, at

Newark, N. J.

1757. His father, the Rev. Aaron Burr, died Sep-

tember 24, aged forty-one years.

1758. His mother, Mrs. Esther Edwards Burr,

daughter of the Rev. Jonathan Edwards,
died April 7, aged twenty-six years.
1769. He entered Princeton College at the age of
thirteen, and during his college days was
looked upon as one of the brightest scholars.
He took the junior prize for English, and

106 THEODOSIA

also received the second prize for reading
Latin and Greek.

1771. He was one of the founders of the Cleosophic

Society, which was, in reality, a debating
club. While at college he wrote a num-
ber of orations; among them one on
"Style," a second on <6The Passions," and
a third on "An Attempt to Search the
Origin of Idolatry," and other subjects.

1772. He was graduated at Princeton College at

the age of sixteen years.

He did not receive either of the hio-h

o

honors on his graduation in 1772. He
delivered a Commencement oration on
"Castle Building." 1

James Madison, Jr., afterwards fourth
President of the United States, was a
member of the class of 1771, and at the
time Burr was graduated, Jonathan
Mason, of Massachusetts, was a member
of the sophomore class.

It is interesting to note, in 1780, that
James Roosevelt, of New York, delivered
the valedictory oration (35).

1773. In the autumn of that year he visited the

Rev. Joseph Bellamy, D.D., an intimate
friend of his grandfather, the Rev. Jona-
than Edwards, and a classmate of his
father, the Rev. Aaron Burr, and com-
menced a course of readings on religious
topics. He devoted from sixteen to eigh-
teen hours a day to his studies, but, be-
coming dissatisfied in the spring of 1774,

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72

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—

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HER FATHER 107

he gave up his studies, expressing the
opinion that 'the road to Heaven was
open to all alike.'1

1774. He began the study of law with his brother-

in-law, Tappan Reeve, Esq., at Litch-
field, Conn., being then eighteen years of
age.

1775. He enlisted in the Continental Army at

Cambridge, Mass., in July, and joined
the expedition to Quebec in September.
He was then nineteen years of age. He
was sent by General Benedict Arnold to
convey a message to General Richard Mont-
gomery, by whom he was made a cap-
tain. On December 31, according to
reliable authorities, Captain Burr carried
General Montgomery's body off the field,
after the failure of the assault upon Que-
bec. He was afterwards made Brigade-
Major by General Arnold.

1776. Major Burr distinguished himself in the

Battle of Long Island, and rescued the
brigade of General Knox, September 16.

1776. Major Burr was made aide to General
Washington and joined his military fam-
ily May 20. He resigned his position as he
desired more active work in the army.

1776. Major Burr, after resigning his position as
aide to General Washington, became aide
to General Israel Putnam, being recom-
mended by Governor Hancock, of Massa-
chusetts. He was a great favorite with
the General.

108 THEODOSIA

1776. Major Burr discovered that Miss Margaret

Moncrieffe was a British spy. Under
the guise of painting flowers, she had
copied the whole plan of our fortresses
and had sent them to General Howe.
Major Burr discovered this, and although
friendly to Miss Moncrieffe, showed his
fidelity to his country by reporting the
same to General Putnam. Miss Mon-
crieffe was at once removed from New
York and sent to Kings Bridge.

1777. Major Aaron Burr was appointed lieuten-

ant-colonel of Malcolm's regiment located
at Ramapo, N. J., at that time being
twenty-one years of age.

1777. In September, Colonel Burr led his soldiers
to victory in the Battle of Paramus, N. J.,
distinguishing himself with great honor
and capturing a large number of the
British. It was the first engagement in
which he wras in sole command, and it
was his first victory.

1777. While the Continental Army was encamped

at Valley Forge, Colonel Burr was de-
tailed to take command at "the Gulf";
while there a mutiny took place which
was quickly suppressed by Colonel Burr.

1778. In the Battle of Monmouth Colonel Burr

commanded a brigade. His horse was
shot under him, and he was prostrated by
the heat, which brought on the complaint
which obliged him eventually to resign from
the army on account of ill-health.

HER FATHER 109

1778. Colonel Burr was placed in charge of "The

Lines' in Westchester County, in the
State of New York, on the recommen-
dation of Gen. Alexander McDougall.
While there he suppressed the outrages
of the Cowboys and Skinners and re-
stored order, in which work his predeces-
sors had failed, as did his successors.

1779. He surprised and captured the British gar-

rison of a block-house, and later drove
back General Tryon, who contemplated
a raid into Connecticut.

1779. Colonel Burr, on March 10, resigned his
position in the army on account of ill-
health. At the request of General Mac-
Dougall he made his way through the
enemies' lines and delivered a verbal
message to General Washington.

1779. While visiting some friends in New Haven,

although in poor health, he still had the fire
of American patriotism burning within
him, and when the British arrived, Jujy
5, he rallied the people of the neighbor-
hood, and volunteered to take command
against the British. He was then out of
the army, his resignation having been
accepted by the Commander-in-chief.

1780. Burr resumed the study of law with Judge

William Paterson, of Princeton, N. J.,
who later in life became Governor of the
State. Burr was then twenty-four years
of age.

1781. In the spring he removed to Haverstraw,

110 THEODOSIA

N. Y., and studied law with Thomas
Smith, Esq. In the autumn he left
Haverstraw for Albany, with a view of
being admitted to the bar.

1782. He was admitted to the bar January 19,
being nearly twenty-six years of age.

1782. On the 2d of July he was married to Mrs.

Theodosia Prevost, of Paramus, N. J.

1783. In the autumn he removed from Albany to

New York City, engaging in the practice
of law.

1784. He was elected a member of the New York

State Legislature.

1785. Mr. Burr was in the New York State Legis-

lature when, on the 25th of February, a
bill was pending for the gradual abolition
of slavery within the State of New York.
It provided that all negroes born after
the date of its passage should be free men.
Mr. Burr moved to amend that slavery
should be entirely abolished. His amend-
ment being lost, he voted for the bill as
reported.

1785-1788. Mr. Burr remained out of politics,
devoting his time to his legal practice,
which was extensive and lucrative. The
education of his daughter Theodosia, and
the two sons of Mrs. Prevost Burr, was
delightful employment for him during
these years.

1789. Mr. Burr was appointed Attorney- General
of the State of New York.

1791. The Hon. Aaron Burr took his seat as

HER FATHER 111

United States Senator on the 4th of March,
being thirty-five years of age.

1794. The Hon. Aaron Burr, while still Senator,
was the choice of his party, in the United
States Senate and House, as Ambassador to
France. His wife, Mrs. Theodosia Prevost
Burr, died in the spring of that year.

179G. Hon. Aaron Burr, while Senator, received
thirty electoral votes at the Presidential
election, which resulted in the choice of
John Adams as President, and Thomas
Jefferson as Vice-President.

1797. The Hon. Aaron Burr developed the Man-

hattan Banking Company.

1798. The Hon. Aaron Burr, having finished his

term of six years as United States Senator,
was elected a member of the Assembly
for the City and County of New York by
the Democratic party.

1799. The Hon. Aaron Burr fought a duel with

John B. Church, at Hoboken, N. J.,
September 2, which wras the outcome of
erroneous statements made by Mr. Church
relative to Colonel Burr. Neither was
hurt, and the difference between them
was harmoniously settled.

1799. The Hon. Aaron Burr was again elected

to the New York State Legislature, and
supported the law of that year by which
slavery was utterly abolished within the
State of New York.

1800. The Hon. Aaron Burr was elected Vice-

president of the United States.

112 THEODOSIA

1801. On the 4th of March the Hon. Aaron Burr
became Vice-president of the United States
and took his seat as President of the
United States Senate.

1801. His daughter, Theodosia, was married to

Colonel Joseph Alston, of Georgetown,
S. C.

1802. His grandson, Aaron Burr Alston, was born

June 29.

1804. The Hon. Aaron Burr was a candidate
for the Governorship of the State of New
York, but was defeated by the Hon.
Morgan Lewis.

1804. The trouble between Aaron Burr and Alex-
ander Hamilton came to a climax in this
year. The interchange of letters, which
have become famous, took place between
June 18 and July 3, and finally led up
to the duel.

1804. Burr and Hamilton fought a duel at Wee-

hawken, N. J., July 11. Hamilton w^as
mortally wounded.

1805. The Hon. Aaron Burr presided, as Pres-

ident of the Senate, at the trial of Judge
Samuel Chase, who was found not guilty
of the charges made against him, March 1.

1805. Burr bade farewell to the United States
Senate. Resolutions were passed express-
ing, in the most exalted terms, approval
of his conduct as President of the Senate.

1805. Burr's acquaintance with the Blennerhas-
setts began in the month of December.

1805-1807. Burr's connection with the Mexican

HER FATHER 118

project, or what is known as the South-
western Conspiracy, took place in these
years.

1807. Burr was arrested in Alabama, February

19. He was placed on trial for high
treason and misdemeanor. The trial was
held at Richmond, August 5, before the
Hon. Chief Justice John Marshall, and
a verdict of 'Not Guilty' was rendered
September 1.

1808. The Hon. Aaron Burr sailed for Europe

June 7.

1808-1812. The Hon. Aaron Burr was abroad in
Europe, during which time he visited
England, Sweden, Denmark, Holland,
Germany, and France, being received by
the nobility and royalty, and making the
acquaintance of many famous men and
women, including the Princess Louise,
who became the mother of Emperor
William the First, of Germany.

1812. Burr returned to New York, via Boston,
from Europe, June 8. He immediately
engaged in the practice of law, in an
office with Colonel Robert Troup, an
old army friend.

1812. Burr's grandson, Aaron Burr Alston, died
June 30, aged ten years.

1812. Burr's daughter, Mrs. Theodosia Alston,
sailed from Georgetown, S. C., December
30, on the pilot boat Patriot, commanded
by Captain Overstocks. The vessel failed
to reach port.

114 THEODOSIA

1812. Burr opened an office for the practice of
law in Nassau Street.

1812-1833. Burr devoted all his time to his legal
practice. The Medcef-Eden case, which
was dropped by Alexander Hamilton, occu-
pied a great deal of his time. He reversed
Mr. Hamilton's opinion and brought the
case to a successful climax, restoring the

o

property to the Misses Eden, who were
the heiresses. While conducting the case,
Colonel Burr personally attended to the
education of the ladies, supplying them
with funds whereby they could continue
their studies until he had recovered their
property.

1833. Hon. Aaron Burr was married to Madame
Jumel on the 1st of July, being at that
time seventy-seven years of age. In the
same year he was stricken with a slight
attack of paralysis.

1836. He was again attacked by the eventually
fatal malady. Surrounded by many
friends and relatives, he passed away
at Mersereau's Ferry (now Port Rich-
mond), Staten Island, New York, on
Wednesday, September 14, aged eighty
years, seven months, and eight days. He
was buried at Princeton, N. J., on Friday,
September 16, in the cemetery attached
to the Princeton College grounds, near
the graves of his honored grandfather,
the Rev. Jonathan Edwards, and his
father, the Rev. Aaron Burr.

CHAPTER VIII

MRS. THEODOSIA PREVOST BURR

IN the lives of Colonel Aaron Burr by Knapp,
Davis, Parton, and Merwin, but little is told
of the ancestors or immediate family of Mrs. Theo-
dosia Prevost, who became his wife. Diligent
search has, however, brought to light much authen-
tic information in regard to her and her family
which is now presented, in connected form, for the
first time.

How unreliable the information given in histories
and biographies has been may be seen from the
fact that for a hundred years and more she has been
represented as the wife of Gen. Augustine Prevost,
when, in reality, she was the wife of his brother.
But the consideration of that relationship, and its
ending by the death of her husband, must be de-
ferred, while we go back to the days when Wolfe
defeated Montcalm on the Plains of Abraham.

Captain Peter Wraxall married Elizabeth Still-
well, December 9, 1756. He was in garrison at
Fort Edward in 1757, when Fort William Henry
was left to its fate by its commander, Webb, and
its garrison suffered such atrocities. Captain Wrax-
all died July 11, 1759.

The pages of history now tell us who was Mrs.
Wraxall's second husband (36) :

115

116 THEODOSIA

John Maunsell, a soldier of Wolfe's, who reached the rank of
Lieutenant-general, was a son of Richard Maunsell, of Limerick, M. P.,
from 1741-1761, and Jane, daughter of Richard Waller, Esq., of
Castle Waller, County Tipperary, Ireland. His grandfather was
Thomas, who married a daughter of Sir Theophilus Eaton. One of
his brothers was the Rev. Wm. Maunsell, D. D. They were descended
from a scion of the Maunsells of Bucks, who settled in Cork in 1609.
The family had a branch in Glamorgan, who spelled the name without
the u. They have a tomb in Westminster Abbey, in the north aisle
near the transept. Among them were Sir Edward, of Margam, father
of Thomas Lord Mansell, in the reign of Queen Ann; and William,
Bishop of Bath and Wells. The name is pronounced by all according
to the English spelling. It has always been distinguished in the
church, the army, and the navy by eminent names.

General Maunsell espoused for his second wife Elizabeth Stillwell,
widow of Captain Peter Wraxall, which the register of Trinity Church
records under the date of June 11, 1763. She was of remarkable
beauty, as her portrait, in the possession of the family of the late
H. Maunsell Schieffelin, testifies; and she was one of "the six beautiful
sisters," daughters of Richard Stillwell, of Shrewsbury, and Mercy
Sands, among whom were Mrs. Clark, mother of the wife of Bishop
Moore, and of Lady Affleck, the mother of Lady Holland, and Mrs.
De Visme, mother of Theodosia, wife of Aaron Burr, who was the
mother of Theodosia Burr Alston. Her first husband was a man of
more than ordinary capacity and acquirements, and held a leading
place in the affairs of the Province of New York, especially as the
secretary for Indian affairs and the confidential friend and aide-de-
camp of Sir William Johnson, a relation honorable to both — to Sir
William as trusting this virtuous and upright man above the venal and
debauched satellites around him, and to Captain Wraxall, as devoting
his learning and ability to the difficult, dangerous, and disheartening
labors of Johnson and the Indian tribes.

General Maunsell, at one time, reposed great
confidence in Colonel Burr, but for some reason,
not fully explained in a letter to his sister, changed
his mind. His prognostication, in one respect,
was correct, for Colonel Burr did not go to Con-

HER MOTHER 117

gress until he was elected United States Senator in
1791 (37).

A letter from the General, addressed to his sister "at the Rev. Mr.
Benjamin Moore's, New York," dated "London, December 14, 1783,"
is interesting as showing his affectionate consideration, his knowledge
of affairs, his prudence in counsel, and chiefly his admiration for
Colonel Burr, who had recently married a niece of Mrs. Maunsell's —
Theodosia, widow of Lieutenant-colonel Prevost of the British army;
a sentiment which, it is needless to say, the honest veteran had occasion
to change. "My dear sister," he wrote, "Mr. Burr will counsel you
in all this. I hear a great character of him, and I think Theo was
lucky in meeting so good a man. You may rest assured that my wife
and myself are your sincerest and most disinterested friends, and your
happiness shall be our first and only object. Consult Mr. Burr only,
whose goodness will induce him to give you the best advice." After
their return to New York in 1784, they made their home at 11 Broad-
way.

Major-general Maunsell was promoted Lieutenant-general October
12, 1793. He had been abroad the previous year, whence he sent a
letter to his niece, Miss Watkins, so characteristic of the old soldier,
with glints of Irish humor, irony, and banter, honest and sincere, and
withal so changed in its estimate of Aaron Burr, that it deserves to be
given in full:

"A thousand thanks for your letter of the 16th January, which came
to my hands on the 16th February, accompanied by one from your
aunt and one from Lyddy. I am to hope that your aunt is well, tho
neither of you tell me so in your letters; Lyddy is quite silent respecting
her. I hope she has not experienced any inconvenient cold from the
severity of the winter. I really long to see you all more than you can
imagine. Lyddy tells me that Mr. Burr expects a seat in Congress,
and that he has taken Big Symmon's house in Wall Street. As I shall
never more have any intercourse with him or his family, his changes
in life give me no concern, or pleasure; he is no friend to your house.
I rejoice that you and Lyddy find beaux to attend you, and that you
mix with the gay and lively. Remember me to the Stoutens, Ten
Eycks, Smiths, the Randalls - - Miss in particular - - Miss Ramsey
Marshall, and our opposite Miss Sucky Marshall, and be sure to men-
tion me always to my good friend General Gates and his lady.

118 THEODOSIA

I do not think that Mr. Burr will be sent to Congress. You will
perceive that he will act just as he did respecting the Assembly; he
declined in print — before he was chosen - - a pritty mode of mani-
festing confidence in success which he was not sure of. Pity he had
not hired apartments in Big S's paunch, which is large enough, than
to have taken his house. I hope that a letter from Captain Drew will
accompany this to Lyddy and me; I have written to him; no answer
as yet. I have said all that occurs to me. I'll lay down my pen, first
requesting you to make my most affectionate regards to all your house;
don't forget Sam."

The strength of his character was shown in the lasting impress
which he left on all with whom he was brought in contact. His name
remained with them, and still remains with the descendants, a house-
hold word, and they never tired of repeating his sayings and his acts.
Even his foibles were dear to them, as when they told how the veteran
who faced the bullets and bayonets of the French and Spaniards, and
the tomahawk and scalping knife of the savage, was so afraid of being
choked by a fish bone that he would allow no one to speak to him
while he was eating fish. His name, perpetuated in every generation
since his death, testifies to the abiding veneration with which his
memory is cherished.

Another glimpse into history introduces us to
Colonel Roger Morris and the Jumel Mansion,
which, for a short time, was the home of Colonel
Burr (38).

Colonel Roger Morris was a handsome, magnetic man of the world,
who, born and bred in England, had joined the army and had been
sent to this country as the aide-de-camp of Braddock; he was with the
latter on his unlucky expedition, and there he made the acquaintance
of Washington. Later he was in service in the French war under
Loudon, was in Wolfe's expedition against Quebec, was at the Battle
of Sillery in 1760, and commanded the third battalion in the expedition
against Montreal under General Murray. He married Mary Philipse.
The house in which he lived was known as the Roger Morris Mansion,
now called the Old Jumel Mansion.

Colonel Morris and his wife were not long without agreeable neigh-
bors in their picturesque solitude. General John Maunsell, B. A., a

HER MOTHER 119

British officer of note, was married in 1763 to Elizabeth Stillwell, the
young and beautiful widow of Captain Peter Wraxall, and purchased
a fine tract of land adjoining the Morris estate, and built a substantial
frame house, which is still standing (1889), in good repair, on the
corner of 157th Street and St. Nicholas Avenue. Lydia Stillwell, a
sister of Mrs. Maunsell, was the wife of John Watkins, who, not far
from the same time, purchased a very extensive landed property near by.
The Stillwell sisters - - daughters of Richard Stillwell, of New Jersey,
of which there were six, inclusive of Mrs. Maunsell and Mrs. Watkins
— were noted far and wide for their beauty and their accomplishments.
One of them married Lord Affleck, and lived and died in a castle built
by William the Conqueror; another married Mr. Clement Clark, who
resided at Chelsea, as it was then called, near the foot of 23d Street
and the Hudson, and her daughter became the wife of the celebrated
Bishop Moore; another was Mrs. De Visme, the mother of the wife
of Aaron Burr, and grandmother of the beautiful Theodosia; and still
another, Mrs. Smith, was the mother of the wife of Dr. Samuel Brad-
hurst. This gentleman built the old Bradhurst mansion, a short dis-
tance to the South of the Watkins house, a notable landmark of the
olden time, now standing (1889) in 148th Street between Tenth and
St. Nicholas Avenue. The land about it and its site was a slice of
the Watkins estate, as was also the site of "the Grange," a little farther
south, the old historic home of Alexander Hamilton.

Miss Ann Stillwell married Theodosius Bartow
for her first husband. Theodosia Bartow, her
daughter, married James M. Prevost, an officer in
the British Army. Mrs. Theodosius Bartow took
for her second husband Philip De Visme, while Mrs.
Theodosia Prevost, her daughter by her first hus-
band, when widowed, became the wife of Colonel
Aaron Burr. The Bartow house was located in
Perth Amboy, New Jersey (39).

The next residence to the cottage of Madame Scribblerus in an-
tiquity and interest is the venerable dwelling so well loved by all old
Amboy residents as the abode of the Smith family, after whom Smith
Street is named.

120 THEODOSIA

This old house has a large share of romantic interest in being the
home of the queer and eccentric Thomas Bartow, a gentleman of
wealth and culture, whose friendship for the youthful William Dunlap
in the days before the Revolution is said to have laid the foundation
of the artistic knowledge which eventually made him one of New York
City's most famous theatrical managers and art critics.

Thomas Bartow at that time, just before the Revolution, was a
very old man. Dunlap himself in after years described him as "a
small, thin old man, with straight gray hair hanging in comely guise
on each side of his pale face." Tradition says that owing to some
mystery in connection with the wrong he had done a woman in youth,
he lived in strict seclusion, no females but his relatives and a black
woman as venerable as himself ever crossing his threshold. But per-
haps his relatives made amends for the rest of the fair sex, for he had
many and interesting ones. First of all in the white light of history
stands his lovely niece, Theodosia Prevost, afterwards Mrs. Aaron
Burr. She was the daughter of his brother Theodosius Bartow, who
married Ann Stillwell. He was a lawyer and native of Shrewsbury,
New Jersey, and it was there that the woman whose charm excelled
that of every other member of her sex, according to Burr, passed
her early youth, until she was wooed and won by Lieutenant-colonel
Prevost, a relative of Lieutenant-general Sir George Prevost, Baronet.
She must have often visited the old gentleman with her mother, Mrs.
Philip De Visme, for he left her in his will "One hundred pounds in
Spanish Mill'd dollars, at eight shillings each, for the use of her chil-
dren," which was a large legacy.

An old resident of Perth Amboy is thus reminis-
cent (40):

In reading of the marriage of Aaron Burr to the daughter of Theo-
dosius Bartow, of Shrewsbury, N. J., recalled a reminiscence. When
from eight to ten years old, our home was midway between the resi-
dence of Mrs. Susan Parker, the aunt of the venerable Courtlandt
Parker (the veteran lawyer of Newark), and the house of a Mr. Morris
who was owner of a big hay press and wharves at Perth Amboy, from
which New York received its pressed hay. We were then a boy of
about eight years, and from our window could see a young man with
his couch close to the open window of the Morris residence, almost
constantly fanned during the summer season by the nurses in the Morris

HER MOTHER

home. We had seen him come to Amboy for his health, but he wasted
away, despite all the care possible, from his anxious relatives, and was
on his dying bed at last. Mrs. Susan Parker had extensive gardens
and was an angel to all in distress, and she told us to call every morn-
ing and take a bunch of flowers (for they were not then called bou-
quets) to the sick man in the house of Mr. Morris. The little boy was
glad of the duty, and the choicest of the garden productions were ready
every day and went to the man whose life was so rapidly wasting away.
He was the first dying person we had seen, and his emaciated frame,
and painful smile with which he received the daily tokens of sympathy
made a lasting impression upon the little messenger. But one morn-
ing the lad went silently in as usual and up to his room with the blooms
for the bed of death. Startled at the awful scene, I quickly laid the
flowers in their accustomed place, but the eyes of Theodosius Bartow
could see them no more. We have no knowledge of what eventually be-
came of the Morris people, but after my father's people moved upon the
old homestead at Metuchen, the Morris family, who had no children of
their own, sold the hay presses and wharves and moved away. But I
was lately recalled to them by the fact that Mrs. Prevost's father was
Theodosius Bartow, of Shrewsbury, N. J., and the same name sug-
gests an inquiry as to what relationship, if any, existed between him
and the Theodosius Bartow whose deathbed made such a lasting im-
pression upon the writer of this paragraph over seventy years ago.

The death of Theodosius Bartow occurred shortly
before the birth of his child, whom he wished named
after him; being a girl, the feminine form of the
name was adopted- Theodosia, 'the gift of God.':
The fact has been noted in a previous chapter that
Theodosia Burr, the Colonel's daughter, who often
signed her name Theodosia B. (Bartow) Burr, was
the only member of the Burr family who has ever
borne the name of Theodosia.

In 1903, D. Appleton & Company, of New York,
published a book entitled "The Stirrup Cup," written
by J. Aubrey Tyson. The scene of the story is
laid in Suffren and the surrounding Ramapo dis-

THEODOSIA

trict in New Jersey, and the story itself is an account
of Colonel Burr's dramatic courtship, and marriage
to Mrs. Theodosia Prevost.

The States, a newspaper published in New Or-
leans, in its issue of June 21, 1903, said: "D. Apple-
ton & Company recently received a letter from
J. Bogert Suffren, a grandson of the founder of Suff-
rens, Rockland County, New York, ordering a copy
of "The Stirrup Cup." Mr. Suffren wrote:

I am led to send for this book because of the fact that Colonel Burr
was in command of the American post at the Ramapo Valley, the re-
mains of the intrenchments of which are in good preservation on my
property at this place, and because of the further fact that the Colonel
had his headquarters at the house of my great-grandfather, Judge
John Suffren.

Madam Prevost at the time of the courtship resided in Hohokus,
a station on the Erie Railroad, eight miles south of Judge Suffren 's.

While stationed at Ramapo, Colonel Burr made a raid on a con-
siderable body of British and Tories lying at Hackensack, N. J., which
was quite successful, in doing which he passed the residence of Madam
Prevost.

Madam Prevost's first husband, James Marc Prevost, was an officer
in the British army, and in December, 1775, obtained a grant from the
British authorities of 5000 acres, which covered a considerable por-
tion of the town of Ramapo, including the now villages of Suffren
and Hillburn. This grant, or a large portion of it, ultimately passed
to the ownership of Dr. Elijah Rosencrants a few years after the war,
and the property is still in the possession of his descendency.

Histories and biographies have contained, and
some still contain the erroneous statement that
Mrs. Theodosia Prevost was the w^ife of General
Augustine Prevost. "He was born in Geneva, Swit-
zerland, about 1725; was a British general in the
Revolutionary War. He defeated the Americans
at Brier Creek in 1779; was unsuccessful before

HER MOTHER 123

Charleston in 1779, but defended Savannah success-
fully in the same year. He died in England, May
5, 1786" (41).

It became evident, if Mrs. Prevost was married
to Colonel Burr in 1782, that she had a husband
living at the time. Investigations proved, however,
that there had been a mistake made in the name,
which had not been corrected for more than a
century.

A letter addressed to General James Grant Wil-
son, one of the editors of Appleton's Cyclopaedia of
American Biography, in 1901, elicited the follow-
ing reply:

'Herewith I hand you the desired data concern-
ing Mrs. Prevost's first husband, who was a brother
of General Augustine Prevost, and is believed to
have died in Jamaica in 1779. My secretary, who
looked up the information, suggests that you con-
sult the Bartow Genealogy, should you desire fur-
ther data of Burr's first wife. The home of his
second wife, Madame Jumel, for some months
General Washington's headquarters, has just been
purchased by the city for one hundred and fifty
thousand dollars."

General Wilson inclosed the following data:

Theodosia, Aaron Burr's first wife, was the daughter of Theodosius
Bartow, of Shrewsbury, N. J., counsellor-at-law.

Her first husband was Jacques Marc (James Mark) Prevost, who
was the brother of General Augustine Prevost, and who died in the
West Indies in 1779 (according to Burke 's Peerage).

James Mark Prevost was appointed Major (local rank in America)
July 23, 1772; he was made Major in the British Army September 21,
1775. He went to the "60th (or Royal American) regiment of foot"
September 13, 1773. He was in the second battalion of the regiment

124 THEODOSIA

in Antigua in 1776, and was transferred to the first battalion June 6,

1778. On August 29, 1777, he was made Lieutenant-colonel (local
ranks in America). The first battalion was stationed in Jamaica from
1773 until after his name ceases to appear on the rolls.

The sketch in N. Y. Genealogical Record (2, 13, p. 27) gives the
place of his birth as Geneva, Switzerland.

Burke 's peerage gives the place and date of his death as 1779 in the
West Indies. I could not verify this from the Annual Register for

1779, 1780, 1781. His name appears without change in the Army list
for 1779, 1780, 1781. The date of his successor's (Peter Hunter) acces-
sion to the rank is given as October 20, 1781.

Colonel Burr's first acquaintance with Mrs. Pre-
vost is thus accounted for by a well-known his-
torian (42):

At Paramus, sixteen miles from where his regiment lay, lived, in
modest elegance, a family by the name of Prevost, a branch of a family
distinguished in the society and in the annals of England. Colonel
Prevost was with his regiment in the West Indies, and at Paramus
lived his wife, Theodosia Prevost, her sister, Miss De Visme, and their
mother, Mrs. De Visme, and the two little sons of Colonel and Mrs.
Prevost. The ladies were accomplished and intelligent; for a long time
their house had been the centre of the most elegant society of the
vicinity, and after the Revolution had begun, officers of rank in the
American army still visited them. By the strict law of the State, they
would have been compelled to withdraw to the British army, and some
of the severer Whigs wished the law to be enforced in their case, as it
had been in others. But these ladies, besides being beloved in the
neighborhood, guarded their conduct with so much tact that no very
serious opposition was made to their residence within the American
lines. The sudden death of Colonel Prevost in the WTest Indies gifa
them at length the right to embrace either party in the great dispute.
When Colonel Burr took the command in that part of the country, the
Prevosts held their old position, and their house was a favorite resort
of the American officers. It is not unlikely that his acquaintance with
the family began on that night of terror when the British threatened
to lay waste the country and the American militia attacked the farm
fences. If so, the young soldier must have presented himself to the

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HER MOTHER 125

ladies in the character that ladies love, that of a hero and protector;
a protector from the ravages of troops who were there for the express
purpose of plundering and destroying. Be that as it may, it is certain
that about this time Mrs. Prevost and Colonel Burr conceived for each
other a regard which rapidly warmed into an ardent passion.

The house occupied by Mrs. De Visme (formerly
Bartow, nee Stillwell) was called The Hermitage'
and sometimes The Little Hermitage.'' In the
description of it which follows (43), the mooted
question as to where and by whom Colonel Burr
and Mrs. Prevost were married is introduced.
Much interesting testimony bearing upon this sub-
ject will be given later in this chapter.

The Hermitage was in Burr's time a small stone house. The end,
as shown in the picture, was the only portion of the house then stand-
ing. The addition was constructed afterwards, but the old part re-
mains substantially as it was in Burr's time. Here he came ridmg
up the long driveway from the road to the house. A slave took his
horse back to the barn, which was also of stone, and he entered the
door seen in the picture. The house was old then. There is no record
of the date of its construction, but that it was used as a meeting place
for the Free Masons at some time appears certain. Masonic emblems
are chiseled in stone in several places on the front side. They are
fairly well preserved now, though the house is known to be over two
hundred years old.

Near the main building, which is shown in the picture, was a much
smaller structure, which was also of stone. When the records of the
house begin, there was no known entrance to this building. It was
apparently solid stone. Later, when the occupant was having some
repairs made in the cellar, a secret passage to this small building was
found. Upon opening it, a set of stairs which led up to a small room
was discovered. Upon exploring the exterior, nothing of interest was
found, but it is believed that this room was used as a storage place
for the paraphernalia of the Masons who formerly met there. Some
excavating may be done later about the northeast corner of the build-
ing to see if any records were placed under the cornerstone.

126 THEODOSIA

It has always been supposed that Colonel Burr and Mrs. Prevost
were married in the Old Dutch Church at Paramus, which was stand-
ing long before the Revolution, and which was used as a hospital during
the fighting which occurred about it. The building was erected in
1735 and was reconstructed in 1872. It saw hard service during the
year 1776 and thereabouts. The entire commissary department of
Washington's army was near it, and the sick and wounded were cared
for within it. It bore the marks of bullets and cannon-balls, and the
British committed some acts of vandalism which were, to say the least,
inhuman. The records were destroyed by fire, so that it is impossible
to determine whether Burr was really married there or not.

Mr. W. C. Rosencranz, present owner and occupant of the Hermit-
age, declares that Burr was not married in the church. He says that
his grandmother was a young girl when some of those who were asso-
ciates of Mrs. Prevost were women, and she used to tell him that the
women told of the wedding ceremony in the parlor of the Hermitage.
She told very minutely of the carriages and the guests, and one of the
ladies was a bridesmaid, which would appear to confirm the story.

Circumstantial evidence appears to strengthen this conclusion. Mrs.
Prevost was a communicant of the High English Church, and would
not be likely to enter a Dutch Reformed Church if it was possible
to avoid it, and Burr was the son of a Presbyterian minister, and while
he had no particular likes or dislikes at that time, so far as known, it is
highly probable that he would avoid a church wedding if possible. And
it is also probable that they would not go several miles for a wedding
when the house was ample for all requirements. But there are those
who still adhere to the belief that the ceremony was performed in the
church, and that the carriages were for the reception which followed
the ceremony.

During a recent flood, another interesting relic was washed out of
the bed of Hohokus creek, which flows just back of the barn belonging
to the place. It is a French Buhr millstone. This stone is known to
be nearly two hundred years old. It had been lost very many years,
but was discovered by the bursting of an old dam during that freshet.
In Burr's time it was grinding away and supplied the meal for the large
family, with the slaves, which then occupied the Hermitage. Its mate
is doing duty as a step-stone, and this one will be utilized by Mr.
Rosencranz for the same purpose.

Next to the unfortunate Major Andre, Burr was the most interest-

i r

.^^FQI&F&SP

« •*.> - . - -?> -'•^fL^-l T*'

-1, - -r-: : ''^•^^?*J.$3SK'-'.

Rear View of "The Hermitage" at Paramus, New

Jersey (1861).

An old Dutch Tile, from -The Hermitage/' Paramus

New Jersey.

HER MOTHER

ing figure in the war at that time. Even though he afterward became
a national figure, his early dashes in New Jersey were never forgotten,
and his brilliant sallies against small detachments of the enemy will
always remain as touches of the dramatic to every lover of the heroic.

The military record of every man who was brave in the Revolution-
ary period is interesting, but when military glory is combined with a
picturesque love affair, the individual acquires ever greater interest.
All the world loves a lover, and the dashing cavaliers who ride through
the ambuscades of scouting parties of the enemy to visit the homes of
their sweethearts are more than ordinarly attractive; and, combined
with all his other brilliant doings, that was exactly what the young
Colonial colonel did. He not only made night rides through the lines
of the enemy, but he violated other precedents by paying court to the
charming widow of a British officer; and, what is more to the point,
he married her, and so accomplished was she that Burr once said that
he owed all his courtliness of manner, which was proverbial in his time,
to her influence and direction.

From where Washington's army was encamped on the Palisades
to the house was fully fifteen miles, yet the young colonel frequently
made his way through the tangled woodlands and across the country
literally thick with British soldiers, to this house, to remain a portion
of the night and then dash back again. This was continued for no
one knows how long, but old diaries and traditions which have de-
scended in the neighborhood seem to indicate that it was several
weeks. At one time, it is reported in a diary that has been preserved,
he narrowly escaped capture, but that by dashing through a dense
thicket and over some very broken and swampy ground, he managed
to elude his pursuers and got safely within the American lines.

The entertainments which Widow Prevost gave for the young people
of the neighborhood were elaborate. Her family was wealthy for
those days and she had some money of her own. Nearby lived a family
of La Rues, who were important in a social way, and the brilliancy
of the gatherings was remarkable for the times. Records in diaries
and other forms have descended to present residents of that section
which tell of these functions. It was into such society as this that the
brilliant and dashing young colonel was introduced, and when he
afterward led the beautiful widow to the altar, it was conceded that
no handsomer couple ever took the vows in that region.

128 THEODOSIA

The story which follows may be * interesting/'
but it has no foundation in fact. The transition
from Federalism to Democracy - from Adams to
Jefferson - - was not dependent upon the birthplace
of her first husband, or that he was a British soldier.
Besides, the narrator must have forgotten that Theo-
dosia Bartow was born in New Jersey, and was an
'American' girl. Then, again, Mrs. Burr died
in 1794, six years before Burr was voted for with
Jefferson (43):

Many interesting tales are told of the courtship, which, though it
won Burr a beautiful and accomplished wife, cost him the Presidency.
It is said that when the election was pending in the House, and which
resulted in Burr's defeat for the Presidency, a country member rose
for information. When told that Burr was a very able man, and that
he served his country well during the war, the questioner seemed
pleased, but when informed that he married the widow of an English
officer, he sagely remarked that a man who wrould do that when there
were so many good American girls to be had, couldn't be much of an
American, and declared his intention of voting against him. That
vote was the one which defeated him.

Colonel Burr's biographer (44) thus refers to
Mrs. Prevost's real or supposed political sympa-
thies :

'She was an accomplished and intelligent lady.
Her husband was with his regiment in the West
Indies, w^here he died early in the Revolutionary
War." (1779 was not early in the war, which began
in 1775 and closed in 1781.) She had a sister (Miss
De Visme) residing with her. Mrs. Prevost's son
(Colonel Burr's stepson), the Hon. John Bartow
Prevost, wTas Recorder of the City of New York,
and subsequently District Judge of the United
States Court for the District of Louisiana.

HER MOTHER 129

"The house of Mrs. Prevost (or, rather, Mrs.
De Visme's) was the resort of the most accomplished
officers in the American army when they were in
the vicinity. She was highly respected by her
neighbors and was visited by the most genteel people
of the surrounding country.

'Her situation was one of great delicacy and
constant apprehension. The wife of a British of-
ficer, connected with the adherents of the Crown,
naturally became an object of political suspicion,
notwithstanding great circumspection on her part.
Under such circumstances, a strong sympathy was
excited in her behalf. Yet there were those among
the Whigs who were inclined to enforce the laws of
the State against her, whereby she would be com-
pelled to withdraw within the lines of the enemy."

Testimony is conflicting as to what course was
actually taken by the Whigs. A resident of Ridge-
wood, New Jersey (Paramus or Hohokus forms part
of Ridgewood), wrote on August 23, 1906: "Mrs.
Prevost wras chased out of this neighborhood over a
year before she married Burr, and her property con-
fiscated by the loyal element in Bergen County."

This, however, is not conclusive, for a New Jersey
Court officer says: "I have read all through the
doings of the secret action of the Council of Safety
at Trenton, and found no mention of Mrs. Prevost
as having been forced to leave the country for dis-
loyalty or otherwise."

A letter from Colonel Robert Troup, of the Con-
tinental Army, to his brother officer, Colonel H. H.
Hughes, shows that Colonel Troup considered her
loyal to the American cause.

130 THEODOSIA

RARITAN, SOMERSET COUNTY, N. J.,

January 16, 1781.
Dear Friend:

Some time last November I wrote you a letter requesting your
friendly influence in sending to Colonel Steel at Morristown some
books of mine which Colonel Hay has in his custody. I need only
now suggest to you the importance of these books in perfecting my
present plans. I am persuaded you will take pleasure in gratifying
my request.

I feel myself irresistibly impelled by a perfect confidence in the
intimacy subsisting between us, to recommend to your kindest attention
one of my female friends in distress. I mean Mrs. Prevost, who has
been justly esteemed for her honor, virtue, and accomplishments. I
doubt whether you have the happiness of a personal acquaintance
with her, though it is more than probable you are not a stranger to
her character. During the whole course of this war she has conducted
herself in such a manner as proves her to possess an excellent under-
standing as well as a strong attachment to our righteous cause.

My character of this lady is drawn partly from my own knowledge
of her and partly from the information of the most respectable Whigs
in the State. Impressed with those sentiments, I am not ashamed to
confess that I feel an anxiety for her welfare, which you will more
easily conceive than I can describe. It is true that she is the wife of
an enemy. What then ? Must we abandon human nature in order
to manifest our patriotism ? In our opposition to the tyrant of Britain
and his mercenary instruments, is it necessary that we should commence
hostility against innocent women and children? General WTiigism,
which has humanity for its basis, blushes at such disgraceful ideas.

I know you too well to believe that the part you have acted in this
controversy is tinctured even in the smallest degree with interested
motives. A man of this cast of mind will enjoy an exquisite pleasure
in softening the misfortunes of his fellow creatures, notwithstanding
they may be his enemies in a political view. This pleasure will be
heightened when he can extend a helping hand to the fair sex who
have every possible claim to his favor. Without the least deviation
from truth, I can affirm that Mrs. Prevost is a sincere and cordial
well-wisher to the success of our army, which will be an additional
reason with you for showing her all the civilities in your power. What-
ever the tongue of malice may circulate to the contrary, you may rest

HER MOTHER 131

satisfied that the sole cause of her leaving this State and going to
Sharon was the seizure of her estate in consequence of an act of Assem-
bly which some suppose extended to her husband, though a British
subject. Not a single syllable has been lisped to her prejudice by those
who are most desirous of (lightening) the weight of her afflictions.

To any other person but you I should deem it prudent to apologize
for thus advocating the cause of a British officer's wife. But an apology
would be an insult to your feelings. You cannot entertain a suspic ion
of my enthusiastic attachment to the public weal. When I de.sire to
do anything to injure it, unless from an error in judgment, may I be
despised by mankind as much as I shall be hated by myself. An
anxious concern to alleviate the distress of an amiable and elegant
lady, with whom I have long been on the most intimate friendly footing,
gave birth to this letter. "He deserves not to exist who lives only for
himself," has always been my motto.

In my last letter I advised Myles to prosecute his studies in the law.
There will certainly be prospects opening for young fellows in New
York after the end of the war. Pray chat with him once more on the
subject and assure him of my affection for him. Remember me to all
of my New York friends, and believe me, with as much sincerity as
ever,

Your friend,

ROB TROUP.

An old-time resident of Paterson, N. J., in a
lecture delivered before the Rambling Club of that
city, said (45) :

"So great was the danger to the American cause,
the property of Colonel Prevost was confiscated,
which was a cruel outrage, for he was not here at
the time, but in the West Indies w^ith his regiment,
and was never fighting against the Colonies, and
with neither justice nor right could the property
of a British subject be confiscated under the cir-
cumstances. His widow, in her distress because
of the seizure of her estate, and her anxiety to re-
cover it, went for a time to Sharon, but she was

132 THEODOSIA

never, as has been falsely asserted, forced to leave the
neighborhood of Paramus from being suspected of
sympathizing with the Royalists. . . . Colonel Burr
was, perhaps, too high-spirited to continue the con-
test for property belonging to her former husband."
An interesting account is given of an interview
between Mrs. Prevost and Mrs. Benedict Arnold,
on the authority of Colonel Burr's biographer (44) :

In the summer of 1780, Major Andre, of the British army, was in
correspondence with Mrs. Arnold (the wife of General Arnold) under
a pretext of supplying her, from the City of New York, with millinery
and other trifling articles of dress. On the 23d of September, 1780,
Major Andre was captured, and the treason of the general discovered.
When this news reached West Point, Mrs. Arnold became, apparently,
almost frantic. Her situation excited the sympathy of some of the
most distinguished officers in the American army. Mrs. Arnold,
having obtained from General Washington a passport and permission
to join her husband in the City of New York, left West Point, and on
her way stopped at the house of Mrs. Prevost, in Paramus, where she
stayed one night. On her arrival at Paramus, she renewed the frantic
scenes of West Point, and continued so long as strangers were present.
Mrs. Prevost was known as the wife of a British officer, and connected
with the Royalists. In her, therefore, Mrs. Arnold could confide.

As soon as they were left alone, Mrs. Arnold became tranquilized
and assured Mrs. Prevost that she was heartily sick of the theatrics she
was exhibiting. She stated that she had corresponded with the British
commander; that she was disgusted with the American cause and those
who had the management of public affairs - - and that, through great
persuasion and unceasing perseverance, she had ultimately brought the
general into an arrangement to surrender West Point to the British.
Mrs. Arnold was a gay, accomplished, artful, and extravagant woman.
There is no doubt, therefore, that for the purpose of acquiring the
means of gratifying her inordinate vanity, she contributed greatly to
the utter ruin of her husband, and thus doomed to everlasting infamy
and disgrace all the fame he had acquired as a gallant soldier at the
sacrifice of his blood. Mrs. Prevost subsequently became the wife of
Colonel Burr, and repeated to him these confessions of Mrs. Arnold.

I HER MOTHER 133

The preceding statement is confirmed by the following anecdote:
Mrs. Arnold was the daughter of Chief Justice Shippen, of Pennsyl-
vania. She was personally acquainted with Major Andre, and, it is
believed, corresponded with him previous to her, marriage. In the
year 1779-80, Colonel Robert Morris resided at Springatsbury, in the
vicinity of Philadelphia, adjoining Bush Hill. Some time previous
to Arnold's taking command of West Point he was an applicant for
the post. On a particular occasion Mrs. Arnold was dining at the house
of Colonel Morris. After dinner, a friend of the family came in, and
congratulated Mrs. Arnold on a report that her husband was appointed
to a different but more honorable command. The information affected
her so much as to produce hysteric fits. Efforts were made to con-
vince her that the general had been selected for a preferable station.
These explanations, however, to the astonishment of all present, pro-
duced no effect. But, after the treason of Arnold was discovered, the
family of Colonel Morris entertained no doubt that Mrs. Arnold was
privy to, if not the negotiator for, a surrender of West Point to the
British even before the general had charge of the post.

The author of a "Life of Aaron Burr' thus
refers to Mrs. Prevost (46) :

'Mrs. Prevost is described as attractive, but not
beautiful, well educated, literary in her tastes, and
possessed of charming manners. She was older
than Burr, and of a delicate constitution. Her
disposition was gentle and affectionate. Many
years after her death, Burr spoke of her as 'the
best woman and the finest lady that he had ever
known.' Burr's letters to her, from first to last,
express a deep affection in terms which have the
ring of sincerity.'1

The author of the preceding refers to Colonel
Burr as "Major," and says that Miss De Visme
and her mother were of 'Swiss birth.'1 Colonel
Prevost was born in Geneva, and Mr. De Visme
may have been born in Switzerland, but Mrs. De

134 THEODOSIA

Visme (Ann Stillwell) was born in New Jersey, as
were her daughters, Mrs. Prevost and Miss De
Visme, her half-sister.

Many readable accounts have been written of
the courtship of the Widow Prevost by Colonel
Burr. One of the most complete and interesting
is by a correspondent of a New York paper (47) :

Hohokus, N. J., Sept. 26, 1902. — Colonel Burr wooed and won
his bride in Hopperstown. Hopperstown was the name that Hohokus
bore in Revolutionary times.

The old Hoboken and Albany post road which runs through here
was the only route from New York to Albany on the west side of the
Hudson River. In the winter the road on the east was abandoned
for general travel and the one on the west side used altogether, for the
reason that it was more apt to be open. Snow blocked the other road.
The Holland Dutch settled the road thickly enough to keep it clear
of obstructions from Hoboken up as far as the Ramapo Mountains.
The mountains on either side protected the road through the Ramapo
Valley.

Colonel Burr was the autocrat of the post road for a time. When
George Washington moved from the scene of the battle of Trenton
to Newburgh, on the Hudson, he halted a number of times. For seven
weeks he tarried with his forces two and one-half miles from the village
of Mahwah, which is six and one half miles above Hohokus. The
tents were pitched on land, which is now part of Mountainside farm,
belonging to Theodore- A. Havemeyer, of New York. A fence en-
closes the old camp ground, which comprises seventy-five acres. At
the back of it is Mr. Havemeyer 's mammoth barn. In the centre of
the field is a spreading yellow pine. The tree is over two hundred
years old.

Under this tree was pitched the tent of the commandant. It was
the only official headquarters on the camp ground. Andrew Hopper,
one of the Holland Dutch settlers, owned all the country for miles
around, and in his house Washington took up his quarters, and here
he wrote all his letters, beginning "Headquarters, Bergen County."
Part of the Hopper house, as it was designated, is preserved in the
south wing of Mr. Havemeyer's modern mansion. The end wall is

HER MOTHER 135

in plain sight, although covered with cement to hold it intact. Before
going to Virginia, General Washington presented a dinner set to Mr.
Hopper. The set descended to Andrew Hopper Hagerman, who is
now living in Rahway. He gave it to the Hon. S. Hewitt, who in turn
sent it to the Washington headquarters at Newburgh.

Suffern's Clove was the name given the narrow rocky pass affording
the only entrance to the Ramapo Valley. When General Washington
reached it, his practised eye told him that it was important vantage
ground. A handful of men at this point could keep back an army.
To the northeast, General Washington beheld a towering mountain
with a huge rocky dome, which overlooked everything. He clambered
to the top of it and swept the country with his glass. New York Harbor
was revealed to him. He was able to distinguish the strength of the
British fleet and obtain a valuable observation. The mountain is
called the Torne. Its top is 750 feet above the post road, and 1,087
feet above the sea.

The regiment known as Malcolm's was stationed in the Clove to
guard the route to Newburgh. The year was 1777, and Burr, who
had just been appointed Lieutenant-colonel, was left in command of
the force. Earthworks were thrown up across the pass, and cannon
were mounted on top of them. A portion of the old works still remains.
Trees are growing on top of them. When the Erie Railway was built,
an opening was cut through the works for its tracks. Besides being
in a position to beat back the British if they should attempt to follow
General Washington, Colonel Burr performed the duty of securing
from intrusion an important undertaking. A few miles back in the
mountains were the Sterling iron mines. They derived their name
from the fact that they were originally owned by Lord Sterling, who
obtained a grant of an enormous tract of land under royal letters.
The ore was taken out of the mines for the great chain which was con-
structed to stretch across the Hudson River at West Point and obstruct
the passage of British war ships. Some of the old furnace where the
ore was reduced to iron is still standing near Sterling Lake. It was
built against the side of a hill. What is left looks like a stone wall
covered with iron rust. Cannon-balls were cast here, and now and
then one is uncovered.

The links for the chain were fashioned at a forge about eight miles
above the Clove. One of the end walls of the forge yet remains in an
upright position. Ivy thickly overgrows it. It is a short distance above

. 136 THEODOSIA

Lorillard's station, and the Erie Railway's tracks run within a few
feet of it. The shop was directly on the bank of the Ramapo River.
There was a spy in Colonel Burr's lines. It was a noted Tory named
Claudius Smith. He supplied British reconnoitering parties with
horses and information. He had a cove in the mountain side across
the river from the forge. It was a deep indentation in the rocks. A
thick growth hides it now and it is almost impossible to reach it. Smith
was caught and hanged for his work.

Mrs. Philip De Visme lived in the Hermitage at Hopperstown.
The house was a fine one. It set back from the post road and was
surrounded by trees. It was built of the red sandstone underlying the
country. The present owner of the place is Mr. Elijah Rosencrantz.
He built a new part on, and the old part serves as a wing. The new
part was, however, made to conform to the old, and the whole is a pic-
ture of the Tudor style of architecture. The roofs are peaked, and
many of the windows are diamond shaped. Mr. Rosencrantz 's name
for the place is Waldwick, "a light in the woods."

With Mrs. De Visme lived a daughter who was always alluded to
as "the Widow Prevost." She was a charming woman, and the
Hermitage was visited by all the beaux. British as well as American
officers were guests at different times. Such social gayety did not pre-
vail anvwhere in this region. The Widow Prevost's name was Theo-

*/

dosia Prevost. Her husband was Colonel Prevost of the British Army.
He died in the West Indies.

Colonel Burr came down from Suffern's Clove to a social event at
the Hermitage, and was presented to the widow. He became an
admirer of hers at once, and the more he saw of her the more he liked
her. It is known that Burr might have formed an alliance with a power-
ful family, but he threw aside this opportunity to woo the widow. She
charmed all she came in contact with. James Monroe began a letter
to her "My Dear Little Friend," and Judge William Paterson, with
whom Burr began his law studies, in a letter to the latter spoke of her
as " a good gentlewoman."

The Hohokus Creek courses through a ravine at the termination
of which was the cluster of houses called Hopperstown. On the north
side of the Creek lived a man named Hopper, from whom the place
received its name. The house is still standing. The wooden part, con-
sisting of a story and a half, rests on high stone walls. A piazza ex-
tends along the front and is reached by broad steps. On the opposite

HER MOTHER 137

side of the Creek was the Zabriskie house. This was a tavern. The
British encamped at Hackensack heard that Hopperstown was a
stronghhold of patriots, and came up to destroy it. Word of their
coming was received. There was a young American officer sick in the
Zabriskie house. Three young ladies, who were belles in the neighbor-
hood, undertook to save him. When the British were coming up the
road they bore, with their own hands, a feather bed from the Zabriskie
house to the Hopper house across the creek. Behind it was the Ameri-
can officer, who in that way was conducted to a place of safety. The
Zabriskie house, being a tavern and a public place, was burned, but
the rest of the place was spared. Colonel Burr was informed of the
invasion. Down from the Clove he clattered at the head of a troop,
anxious to display his valor before the Widow Prevost. The British
had started back for Hackensack. He pursued them, but no engage-
ment took place, although when almost in their stronghold a few shots
were exchanged.

The year 1779 found Colonel Burr in command of the Westchester
lines, with headquarters at White Plains, eight miles east of the Hudson
River. One dark night he detailed six trusty troopers to have ready
at Sunnyside (afterward the home of Washington Irving) a large barge
full of blankets and skins. At eight o'clock he left his camp and gal-
loped to the river. He led his horse into the barge, threw it, and bound
it. The barge was pulled to the west shore, wrhere Colonel Burr re-
leased his horse, threw himself on its back, and spurred it thirteen miles
through the darkness to the home of the fair widow. He reached the
Hermitage at midnight, remaining until two in the morning, when he
started back as he came. The entire distance was beset with danger,
but Colonel Burr made the trip once more, if not twice.

On July 2, 1782, Colonel Burr took the Widow Prevost to be his
wife. The nuptials were celebrated in the Paramus (it was then
spelled Pyramus) church, two miles from Hopperstown, in the valley.
The church was a stone affair, octagonal in form. The steeple ran
up from the center of the roof, and the pulpit was in the center of the
church. There were no pews in the meeting house. The people had
chairs, the ownership of which they determined by having their names
written on them. When there was preaching, the congregation all
pulled up close around the pulpit and listened to what the dominie said.
There was preaching in Pyramus in 1725, but the church in which
Colonel Burr was married was not built until 1735. For a time the

138 THEODOSIA

church was used by the British as a prison in which to keep Colonial
captives. The present edifice, a square stone structure, was built in
1800 and remodelled in 1872. In the church-yard are graves so old
that no idea of the time of burial can be obtained by any records or
signs of existence. For the first burials there were no inscriptions to
tell who reposed in the yard. Flat stones picked up in the fields were
used to mark the graves. Subsequently, the names and ages were
carved on the stones.

One of America's most noted poets took for a
subject the midnight ride of Colonel Burr to visit
his sweetheart at the Hermitage. The poem is
entitled (48):

AARON BURR'S WOOING1

From the commandant's quarters on Westchester Height

The blue hills of Ramapo lie in full sight;

On their slope gleam the gables that shield his heart's queen,

But the redcoats are wary - the Hudson's between.

Through the camp runs a jest, "There's no moon, 'twill be dark, —

'Tis odds little Aaron will go on a spark,"

And the toast of the troopers is, "Pickets, lie low,

And good luck to the Colonel and Widow I\evost!

Eight miles to the river he gallops his steed,

Lays him bound in the barge, bids his escort make speed,

Loose their swords, sit athwart, through the fleet reach yon shore:

Not a word! not a plash of the thick-muffled oar!

Once across, once again in the seat, and away —

Five leagues are soon over when love has the say;

And "Old Put" and his rider a bridle-path know

To the Hermitage Manor of Madame Prevost.

Lightly done! but he halts in the grove's deepest glade,
Ties his horse to a birch, trims his cue, slings his blade,
Wipes the dust and the dew from his smooth handsome face

1 From Harper's Magazine, Copyright 1887, by Harper & Brothers. By
Permission.

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HER MOTHER 139

With the kerchief she broidered and bordered in lace;
Then slips through the box-rows and taps at the hall,
Sees the glint of a wax-light, a hand white and small,
And the door is unbarred by herself all aglow -
Half in smiles, half in tears - - Theodosia Prevost.

Alack, for the soldier that's buried and gone!
What's a volley above him, a wreath on his stone,
Compared with sweet life and a wife for one's view
Like this dame ripe and warm in her India fichu ?
She chides her bold lover, yet holds him more dear,
For the daring that brings him a night-rider here:
British gallants by day through her doors come and go,
But a Yankee's the winner of Theo Prevost.

Where's the widow or maid with a mouth to be kist,

When Burr comes a-wooing, that long would resist ?

Lights and wine on the beaufet, the shutters all fast,

And "Old Put" stamps in vain till an hour has flown past —

But an hour, for eight leagues must be covered ere day:

Laughs Aaron, "Let Washington frown as he may,

When he hears of me next in a raid on the foe

He'll forgive this night's tryst with the Widow Prevost!"

Colonel Burr, evidently, did not confide in all
his friends and tell them the real object of his visits
to the Hermitage.

Colonel Troup wrote him, in 1780 (49): "The
Miss Livingstons have inquired about you in a
very friendly manner, and since I have been with
them I have had an opportunity of removing the
suspicion they had of your courting Miss De Visme.
They believe nothing of it now, and attribute your
visits to the Hermitage to motives of friendship
for Mrs. Prevost and the family. Wherever I am,
and can with propriety, you may be sure I shall
represent the matter in its true light.'1

140 THEODOSIA

Colonel Burr's courtship was not unknown to
Judge Paterson, for he wrote to him, on the 18th
of March, 1779 (50) :

My dear Burr:

I came to this place yesterday in the afternoon, and regret extremely
that I did not arrive earlier in the day, as I should have received your
letter. My stay here will be uncertain. At home I must be by the
beginning of April. I should be happy in seeing you before my return,
but how to effect it is the question. If I could possibly disengage my-
self from business, I would take a ride to Paramus. My best respects
await on Mrs. Prevost, and everything you think proper to the mistress
of your affections.

I am married, Burr, and happy. May you be equally so. I can-
not form a higher or a better wish. You know I should rejoice to
meet you. Tell Mrs. Prevost that I shall take it unkindly if she does
not call upon me whenever she thinks I can be of any service to her.
To oblige her will give me pleasure for her own sake, and double
pleasure for yours. This is a strange, unconnected scrawl; you have
it as it comes.

I congratulate you on your return to civil life, for which (I cannot
forbear the thought) we must thank a certain lady not far from Paramus.
May I have occasion soon to thank you both in the course of the next
moon for being in my line: I mean the married. Adieu.

I am most sincerely yours,

WILLIAM PATERSON.

Colonel Burr and Mrs. Prevost were married
on July 2, 1782. At that time Colonel Burr was
in his twenty-seventh year, Mrs. Prevost being
thirty-six, or ten years his senior.

Mr. Charles Burr Todd, who compiled the ge-
nealogy of the Burr family (51), says that the mar-
riage took place in the Dutch Reformed Church
at Paramus, the Rev. Mr. David Bogert, pastor
of the church, performing the ceremony.

This statement would, at first glance, seem author-

.

Gov. William Paterson of New Jersey.

HER MOTHER 141

itative, but careful investigation discloses seeming
inconsistencies.

The following review appeared in a New York
paper in 1903 (52) :

The Rev. Edward Tanjore Corwin, of New Brunswick, N. J., has
issued a fourth edition of his " Manual of the Reformed Church in
America, 1628-1902," after a lapse of 23 years since the third was
issued. The book is in three parts and an appendix, an octavo of
1,100 pages in all; it has the distinction that no other denomination
possesses such a work. It gives a full general history of what used
to be called the Reformed Protestant Dutch Church in America, in-
cluding biographies, bibliographies, local church history, and chrono-
logical tables. There are chapters on foreign missions, with more
than 200 zealous proselytizers, on the Young People's Societies, the
Alliance of Reformed Churches, and other kindred topics. Part II,
over 630 pages, gives the names of all who have ever officiated in this
church in America during its 275 years of existence, with biographical
data whenever obtainable; included in this list are some scores of names
of converted heathen. Part III treats of the churches, gives the names
of all that ever belonged to this body, the pastorates of each, with
reference to the local histories. The appendix shows what part the
various educational institutions had in training the ministers.

One of the men famous in church annals noted here is Cornelius
Van Dyck, 1818-95, who translated the Bible into Arabic; another is
Guido Verbeck, 1830-98, who did the same for Japan. The book
will be of value in reference libraries for church historians and people
who write for boys of deeds of every-day heroism and long-spun bravery,
besides its original use as a history of this particular church.

Mr. Corwin's 'Manual' states that Benjamin
Vanderlinde was pastor of the church at Paramus
from 1748 to 1789, Gerardus A. Kuypers being
his colleague from 1786 to 1789. Isaac Blauvelt
succeeded Mr. Vanderlinde in 1790. The pastors
were not called "Reverend5 but simply " Mister. >:
Mr. Edward Tanjore Corwin became the pastor
in 1857.

142 THEODOSIA

David Schuyler Bogart was born in New York
City in 1770. Was missionary along the Hudson,
and to the North as far as St. Croix in 1792. In
Albany, as an assistant, 1792-6. South Hampton,
Long Island (Presbyterian), 1796-1806. Blooming-
dale, 1806-7. South Hampton again, 1807-1813.
Success and Oyster Bay, 1813-1826. He died in
1839 (53).

The pastor of the Paramus church in 1902, Mr.
W. H. Vroom, stated that ; There has been no
other Bogart in our ministry, and no Bogert until
the nineteenth century." Mr. David S. Bogart
could not have been more than twelve years of age
at the time of Colonel Burr's marriage. It seems
from the preceding to be conclusively proven that
the marriage was not solemnized by a Mr. Bogart.

A private letter supplies some additional infor-
mation (54) :

Your note in regard to the marriage of Aaron Burr is received. I
was pastor at Paramus from 1857-63, and often visited the old stone
house, very large, of Elijah Rosencrantz, about an eighth or a quarter
of a mile northeast of the Hohokus station on the Erie Railroad. This
is less than two miles from the Paramus church, which is southeast
of Hohokus. Mr. Rosencrantz was a man of fine intelligence, and he
frequently referred to the fact that Aaron Burr was married in his
house. The father of Mr. Rosencrantz was Elijah Rosegrant (so the
name is spelled on his tombstone in the Paramus churchyard) and
was born in 1766. He was a graduate of Queens (now Rutgers) Col-
lege in this city in 1791, and studied theology under Dr. John H.
Livingston, and was licensed to preach in 1794 by the Synod of the
Reformed Dutch Church; but he turned his attention at once to medi-
cine, and lived and died at Paramus or Hohokus. His death occurred
in 1832. He was, therefore, but a little removed from being contempo-
rary with the time of that marriage; so the tradition could hardly be
wrong. I do not know, but I have always taken it for granted, that

I HER MOTHER 143

this Dr. Rosegrant lived in the same house. It is a fine old place. A
half a century ago the tradition was never questioned in that locality.

The pastor of Paramus church in 1782 was Benjamin Vander-
linde (his pastorate extended from 1748-89), but he could, probably,
not speak English, and there was no minister in the Dutch Church in
1782 by the name of Bogart. Bogardus is the Latinized form of Bogart,
but there was no minister of that name, in 1782, in the Dutch Church.
I think that Aaron Burr would have taken a minister with him from
New York or elsewhere. I have never seen a reference to a minister
by the name of Bogart in that decade, 1781-90. There were, however,
scores of Bogarts in Bergen County, N. J., at that time. I think you
may rest assured that the marriage did not take place in the Paramus
church building. I never heard that statement in that neighborhood.
Colonel Burr might have been married by a Justice of the Peace by the
name of Bogart. Such marriages were common in New Jersey.

From many letters received in response to in-
quiries, the following conflicting replies are culled:

"On consideration and information, I feel con-
vinced that the marriage occurred at the home, for
neither Burr nor the widow would have been anxious
to make an unnecessary show of themselves by going
to a church to be married. Besides, only one mar-
riage that I know- of ever occurred in that church.
It wras opposed to Dutch Church customs, and
all about there were old Amsterdam and Rotter-
dam Dutch people, of pride and affluence.'2

"There is no evidence that the Widow Prevost
was a member of the Old Dutch Church at Pa-
ramus, or that she or any of her family were buried
there. As Colonel Burr, before his death, was
attended by a pastor of that church, I have thought
it possible that Mrs. Prevost might have been a
member at some time during her life.'5

"That marriage in the church story has been

144 THEODOSIA

told to me by a dozen or twenty old residents of
Paramus Valley, fifty years ago, and I never before
heard it disputed or questioned. I was born at
Perth Amboy in 1825 and am in my eighty-first
year."

"A record of the marriage of Mrs. Prevost to
the Hon. Aaron Burr, July 4, 1782, can be found
at the county seat, Hackensack, N. J. It is in
the New Jersey Archives, Bergen County, Volume
XXII, page 39, 1st Series."

"The church in which Aaron Burr was married
has stood 170 years. The first marriage ceremony
solemnized within its walls since then (Colonel
Burr's) took place last week, when Miss Blanche
Miller and Dr. W. L. Vroom were united. It was
the first marriage in the church for 113 years."

'As to the wedding, the old people here insist
that it was in the church.1

The Rev. Benjamin Vanderlinde was stated
minister from 1748 to 1788, when the Rev. Ge-
rardus A. Kuypers was called, but it might have
been some other minister that married them. He
(Colonel Burr) was married in the old Paramus
church, and the Widow Prevost lived in the old
Rosencrantz place at Hohokus, and the church
book gives no name of either Bogart or Bogardus,
and that is all I can tell you about it. There may
be some one who knows more about them than I
do, but it is a certain fact that they were married
in the old church at Paramus." (Paramus, N. J.,
June 13, 1906.)

HER MOTHER 145

"As to where Colonel Burr was married, the more
I look into the subject, the more convinced I am
that it was not in the Paramus church. It is sus-
ceptible of proof that Mrs. Prevost left the Her-
mitage and its vicinity for more than a year prior
to the date of the marriage, and Parton does not
say in his "Life of Burr' that Burr was married
in the Paramus church."

The author of "The Burr Family," in a letter to
Mr. F. J. Walton, of Ridgewood, N. J., a gentle-
man who makes a specialty of New Jersey collec-
tions, wrote: "After twenty-four years it is a little
difficult for me to give authority. I went to Pa-
ramus, saw the dominie, and records, and talked
with old men. I must have got it from some of
these."

"Burr was married July 2, 1782, and, of course,
somewhere, but not at, not in, Paramus, Bergen
County, N. J. I have given this seemingly unim-
portant item ample research, and hope this part
of historic fiction will not be further perpetuated."

"In the spring of 1782, Burr was in Albany, deeply
engrossed in matters legal, and the widow had left
this locality for good and all over a year previous.
Just why they should take a long and tedious jour-
ney to be married at Paramus is beyond my com-
prehension. There were plenty of dominies near
at hand."

"In reply to your query of October 14, 1903, I
would say that there are no marriage records known
to be extant of the Old Dutch Church at Paramus,

146 THEODOSIA

prior to 1799. Volume XXII of the New Jersey
Archives gives copies of the marriage records of
that church for 1799 and 1800.

"Local tradition is to the effect that Colonel Burr
married Mrs. Theodosia Prevost in the church
which was then standing on the site occupied by
the present edifice. Mrs. Prevost lived within a
mile or two of the church, and it would seem very
probable that the marriage took place in that neigh-
borhood, if not in the church itself. I am under
the impression myself that church weddings were not
usual in those days among the Dutch people. I pre-
sume Mrs. Prevost, as the daughter of a Church of
England man, and the widow of another, would have
preferred to be married by a Church of England
minister, but I do not think there was any such
clergyman available at that time within thirty miles
of Paramus, and it was, therefore, very natural
that she should be married by the local clergyman.
I do not at this moment recollect who was the
pastor of the Paramus church in 1782, the date of
their marriage, but that can be easily ascertained
by reference to Corwin's Manual.

"I presume you saw in Goodspeed's catalogue,
last week, a notice of the letter of Mrs. Prevost
Burr relating to her wedding. Unfortunately, she
gives no details of the marriage ceremony itself
as regards the place where the wedding ceremony
was celebrated, nor the clerygman who officiated.
I think the document in question is the original
draft of her letter to Mrs. Sally Burr Reeve (55).'''

The letter referred to as being sent by Mrs.

HER MOTHER 147

Colonel Burr to Mrs. Reeve was written some time
in July, 1782. From it we learn that the bridal
pair went by sloop up the Hudson to Albany, but
the point of departure is not given.

A letter of date June 3, 1904, to the Town Clerk
of Litchfield, Conn., elicited the following reply:
44 After carefully searching the records of Litchfield,
I fail to find the marriage of Mrs. Prevost to Colonel
Burr a part of same."

Here is a modern appreciation of Burr in his home
life (56):

Burr, with all his reputation for gallantry, had little admiration for
beauty in women without cleverness, and he was much inclined to an
appreciation of even Stoicism in the female character.

He would send to Mrs. Burr the most charming little letters, written
in the spirit of a husband who aims to have his wife worthy of com-
panionship in their choicest mental pleasure. . . . He would bid her
not to be discouraged over the complaint that she had made about her
memory, and not to expect it to retain with accuracy and certainty
all names and events. Whatever Aaron Burr may have been before
his marriage, or whatever he may have become in after years, his con-
duct at this period of his life, both as husband and father, displayed
in a more than ordinary degree a capacity for enjoying the felicities of a
virtuous household. . . . Nor was the Widow Prevost, whom Aaron
Burr married, an ordinary woman. She was his senior by ten years;
she was hardly a beauty, and there was a scar upon her face, but it
was her fine feminine manner and her elegance of deportment that
brought to her feet the foremost of all the men of his time in the power
to captivate her sex. She passed away when she was still in the noon-
tide of her years, but Burr ever revered her memory as that of "the
best woman and finest lady" he had ever known, or as "the mother
of my Theo," and in Theodosia's mind and person, indeed, were some
of the best qualities of the splendid stocks from which she sprang.

It was these qualities that first caused men to doubt whether Burr
could have been altogether the man of abhorrent character painted
by his contemporaries, when such a daughter was his worshiper. They

148 THEODOSIA

induced James Parton to revise, or soften, the harsh opinion which
history had passed upon him, and American women of patriotic so-
cieties, who in late years have been studying the character of this beauti-
ful woman, have not infrequently been led to look upon her brilliant
but dishonored father with something of the sense of pity.

In sharp contrast to the preceding was an article
which appeared in a Western newspaper (57).
The following letter which was sent to the editor
did not receive a reply:

I have received a clipping from your issue of August 2, 1903, in
which I find the following paragraph: "Burr cherished an enthusiastic
devotion for his wife, to whom he was chronically faithless, and for
his daughter Theodosia, who perished at sea. But he never loved nor
trusted anybody else. He had no respect for the virtue of a woman.
He never remembered nor repaid a kindness. Except as to his regard
for his family, his moral character was without a redeeming trait."

As you will see by the enclosed circular letter, I am engaged in
writing a " Life of Colonel Aaron Burr." If you will kindly read the
small slip, also inclosed, you will find that my object is to learn the
truth about Colonel Burr. When I do learn it, I shall print it.

It is to be presumed that the editor of so influential a paper would
not make statements like those quoted above, unless he possessed some
good authority for doing so. You say that Burr was "chronically
faithless" to his wife. In my researches relating to the life and char-
acter of Colonel Burr, which have covered a period of fully twenty-
two years, I have never met this statement before; on the contrary, I
have a great many references, the tenor of which is exactly opposite
to your declaration. Judge John Greenwood, in a paper read before
the Long Island Historical Society, in September, 1863, said: "His life
with Mrs. Prevost (who died before I went into his office) was of a most
affectionate character, and his fidelity never questioned. There is
another thing that will add to his credit, he was always a gentleman in
his language and deportment."

In another part of his address, the Judge said: "There are some
who suppose that Colonel Burr had no virtues. This is a mistake.
He was true in his friendships and would go any length to serve a
friend, and he had always the strongest affections."

HER MOTHER 149

I could quote many other such references, but this one will suffice
for my purpose. As I said, I am desirous of learning the truth. If
you have in your possession any reliable information to prove the cor-
rectness of your assertions, or can refer me to anyone who can supply
me with such proof, I shall be greatly obliged for the same.

It has been said that Burr did not marry for
beauty; it is also certain that he did not marry
wealth, or to gain political prestige by a matri-
monial alliance with one of the ruling families in
New York, as Alexander Hamilton is said to have
done when he became a member of the Schuyler
family. Mr. Vanderhoven says (45) :

It was not the marriage of a cold and selfish schemer with an eye
only open to the main chance. He was well-born, young and handsome,
with an enviable military career, which he won by his six hundred miles
march through the wilderness and his bravery with Montgomery at
Quebec, and he was a rising man in his profession, and might have
formed an alliance with any one of the wealthy and powerful families
who lent lustre to the annals of their State. Such would have been
the course of a politician or most ordinary men; but Burr, disdaining
these advantages, married the poor wridow of a British officer, the most
unpopular thing in the then state of public feeling that he could have
done. . . . But the father of Theodosia Burr came from no truckling
race. There was no tainted blood in her veins. In choosing a wife,
his choice was too sacred for mercenary or ambitious consideration.

We have seen that both the name of the clergy-
man and the exact place in which Colonel Burr
and Mrs. Prevost were married are in doubt. There
is an unsupported statement that a few days after
the wedding the happy pair paid a visit to Connect-
icut, of which State a nephew of Colonel Burr
was then Governor, and that they were received
with attention.

That the courtship and later union were produc-

150 THEODOSIA

live of mutual happiness to an unusual degree is
evidenced by the correspondence which took place
before and after marriage. These letters have
been printed either in full or in part by Colonel
Burr's biographers, Knapp, and Davis, and Parton,
but they are so interesting, and so conclusive of
the continued existence of marital harmony, that
copious extracts from them are here reproduced.
In his, will be found philosophy, literary criticism,
suggestions as to their daughter's education, and
much advice on household matters; in hers, more
philosophy, more remarks on literary subjects,
references to the little Theodosia's health and pro-
gress in her studies, remarks about her own health,
accounts of home life and pastimes, and some allu-
sions to household matters, including mention of
her two sons, Frederick A. J. and John Bartow
Prevost, who were students in Colonel Burr's law
office in later years. He had always taken a great
interest in their education, as it was his wish that
they should be accomplished and well-educated
men. All his communications on legal matters,
when away on business, were sent to Mrs. Burr
and by her communicated to other attorneys, or
to his stepsons.

From Mrs. Prevost.

LITCHFIELD, February 12, 1781.

I am happy that there is a post established for the winter. I shall
expect to hear from you every week. My ill health will not permit
me to return your punctuality. You must be contented with hearing
once a fortnight. . . .

(Mrs. Prevost's health was very feeble, and continued so, after she
became the wife of Colonel Burr, until her decease.)

If the person whose kind partiality you mention is Paterson, I con-

James Parton, one of Col. Burr's biographers.

HER MOTHER 151

fess myself exceedingly flattered, as I entertain the highest opinion
of the perspicuity of his judgment. Say all the civil things you please
for his solicitous attention to my health. But if it should be Troup,
which I think more probable, assure him of my most permanent grati-
tude.

From Mrs. Prevost.

LITCHFIELD, March 6, 1781.

How strangely we pass through life! All acknowledge themselves
mortal and immortal ; and yet prefer the trifles of to-day to the treasures
of eternity. Piety teaches resignation. Resignation without piety
loses its beauty and sinks into insensibility. Your beautiful quotation
is worth more than all I can write in a twelvemonth. Continue writ-
ing on the subject. It is both pleasing and improving. The better
I am acquainted with it, the more charms I find. Worlds should not
purchase the little I possess. I promise myself many happy hours
dedicated at the shrine of religion.

From Mrs. Prevost.

LITCHFIELD, May, 1781.

Our being the subject of much inquiry, conjecture, and calumny
is no more than we ought to expect. My attention to you was ever
pointed enough to attract the observation of those who visited the house.
Your esteem more than compensated for the worst they could say.
When I am sensible I can make you happy, and myself happy, I will
readily join you to suppress their malice. But till I am confident of
this, I cannot think of our union. Till then I shall take shelter under
the roof of my dear mother, where, by joining stock, we shall have
sufficient to stem the current of adversity.

From Mrs. Prevost.

SHARON, September 11, 1781.

My friend and neighbor, Mr. Livingston, will have the pleasure
of presenting you this. You will find him quite the gentleman and
worthy your attention.

Enclosed is a letter to my sister, which must be delivered by your-
self. You know my reasons too well to infer from my caution that I
entertain the least doubt of Mr. Livingston's punctuality. . . .

Mr. and Mrs. Reeve were well a few days ago. She rides every

152 THEODOSIA

morning to visit the boy, and returns before breakfast. I fear they
will disappoint me in the promised visit.

We were obliged to Dr. Cutting for the most pleasing account of
your health and spirits. Also of your great progress in law.

From Colonel Burr.

ALBANY, June 5, 1781.

That mind is truly great which can bear with equanimity the trifling
and unavoidable vexations of life, and be affected only by those events
which determine our substantial bliss. Every period and every situa-
tion has a portion of these trifling crosses; and those who expect to
avoid them all must be wretched without respite.

From Colonel Burr.

Saturday, December 5, 1781.

A sick headache this whole day. I earned it by eating last night a
hearty supper of Dutch sausages, and going to bed immediately after.
... I took the true Indian cure for the headache. Made a light
breakfast of tea, stretched myself on a blanket before the fire, fasted
till evening, and then tea again. I thought, through the whole day,
that if you could sit by me and stroke my head with your little hand,
it would be well; and that when we are formally united, far from deem-
ing a return of this disorder un malheur, I should esteem it a fortunate
apology for a day of luxurious indulgence, which I should not other-
wise allow myself or you.

From Colonel Burr.

Sunday, December 6, 1781.

An old, weather-beaten lady, Miss Depeyster, has given the whole
history of Burr, and much of Theo, but nothing unfavorable. In a
place where Burr thought himself a stranger, there is scarce any age
or sex that does not, either from information or acquaintance, know
something of him.

I am surprised I forgot to advise you to get a Franklin fireplace.
They have not the inconvenience of stoves, are warm, save wood, and
never smoke. The cost will not be, probably, more than ten or fifteen
dollars, which will be twice saved this winter in wood and comfort,
and they may be moved any where. If you have any fears about Brat

HER MOTHER 153

(Mrs. Prevost's youngest child) I have none. He will never burn him-
self but once; and, by way of preventive, I would advise you to do that
for him. ... It is of the first importance, that you suffer as little as
possible the present winter. It may, in a great measure, determine
your health ever after. I confess I have still some transient distrusts
that you set too little value on your own life and comfort. Remember,
it is not yours alone; but your letters shall convince me.

From Colonel Burr.

Sunday, December 13, 1781.

Mr. Van Rensselaer has succeeded perfectly to my wish. I am
with two maidens, aunts of his, obliging, and (incredible!!) good-
natured. The very paragon of neatness. Not an article of furniture,
even to a tea-kettle, that would soil a muslin handkerchief.

From Colonel Burr.

December 16, 1781.

I have also been busy in fixing a Franklin fireplace for myself. I
shall have it completed to-morrow. I am resolved you shall have
one or two of them. You have no idea of their convenience, and you
can at any time remove them.

From Colonel Burr.

ALBANY, December 23, 1781.

My dear Theodosia is now happy by the arrival of Carlos. This
was not wishing you a happy Christmas, but actually making it so.
Let all our compliments be henceforth practical. The language
of the world sounds fulsome to tastes refined by the sweets of affection.

I see mingled in the transports of the evening the frantic little Bar-
tow. Too eager to embrace the bliss he has in prospect; frustrating
his own purposes by inconsiderate haste; misplacing everything, and
undoing what he meant to do. It will only confuse you. Nothing
better can be done than to tie him, in order to expedite his own busi-
ness. . . .

The whole of your letter was marked with a degree of confidence
and reliance which augurs everything that is good. The French letter
was truly elegant, as also that enclosed in compliance with my
request.

154 THEODOSIA

From Mrs. Burr.

NEW YORK, May, 1785.

The family as you left it. Bartow never quits the office and is
perfectly obliging. Your dear little daughter seeks you twenty times
a day; calls you to your meals, and will not suffer your chair to be
filled by any of the family. . . .

Bartow has been to the surveyor-general; he cannot inform him the
boundaries of those lots for J. W. There is no map of them but one
in Albany.

From Mrs. Burr.

Friday morning.

Mr. Marvin calls for my letter this morning, which will be delivered
with a pound of green tea I have purchased for your landlady at two
dollars. He has called. I am hurried. Ten thousand loves.

Toujours la votre,

THEODOSIA.
To Mrs. Burr.

May, 1785.

The girls must give me a history of their time, from rising to night.
The boys, anything which interests them, and which, of course, will
interest me. Are there any or very pressing calls at the office ? The
word is given to mount. I shall have time to seal this and overtake
them. Kiss for me those who love me.

From Mrs. Burr.

NEW YORK, April, 1785.

The family as you left it. Thy Theodosia's health and spirits
increase daily. Bartow 's industry and utility are striking to the family
and strangers. . . .

I find I am continually speaking of myself. I can only account for
it from my Aaron having persuaded me 'tis his favorite subject, and
the extreme desire I have to please him induces me to pursue it.

To Mrs. Burr.

May 19, 1785.

The letters of our dear children are a feast. Every part of them
is pleasing and interesting.

HER MOTHER 155

To Mrs. Burr.

Sunday, May 22, 1785.

You will receive a pail of butter, perhaps, with this. I have been
contracting for the year.

Have you done running up and down stairs ? How do you live,
sleep, and amuse yourself ? I wish, if you have leisure (or, if you have
not, make it), you would read the Abbe Mably's little book on the
Constitution of the United States.

From Mrs. Burr.

NEW YORK, May 22, 1785.

Mr. Brown very punctually and civilly came with your welcome
packet of Thursday, nine o'clock. It was just before dinner; the
children were dispersed at different employments. I furnished the
mantelpiece with the contents of the packet. When dinner was served
up they were called. You know the usual eagerness on this occasion.
They were all seated but Bartow when he espied the letters; the sur-
prise, the joy, the exclamations exceed description. A most joyous
repast succeeded. We talked of our happiness, of our first of blessings,
our best of papas. . . . Your dear little Theo grows the most engaging
child you ever saw. She frequently talks of and calls on her dear papa.
It is impossible to see her with indifference.

From Mrs. Burr.

NEW YORK, August 28, 1785.

Young and his companions have just left us; at tasting your

Madeira he pronounced you a d— — d clever fellow. Your merit in-
creased with the number of glasses; they went away in good humor
with themselves and the hostess. Oh, my love, how earnestly I pray
that our children may never be driven from your paternal direction.
Had you been home to-day you would have felt as fervent in this prayer
as your Theo. Our children were impressed with utter contempt for
their guest. This gave me real satisfaction.

I really believe, my dear, few parents can boast of children whose
minds are so prone to virtue. I see the reward of our assiduity with
inexpressible delight, with a gratitude few experience. My Aaron,
they have grateful hearts; some circumstances prove it, which I shall
relate to you with singular pleasure at your return.

156 THEODOSIA

From Mrs. Burr.

NEW YORK, August 29, 1785.

Our little daughter's health has improved beyond my expectations.
Your dear Theodosia cannot hear you spoken of without an apparent
melancholy; insomuch that her nurse is obliged to exert her invention
to divert her, and myself avoid to mention you in her presence. She
was one whole day indifferent to everything but your name. Her
attachment is not of a common nature; though this was my opinion, I
avoided the remark, when Mr. Grant observed it to me as a singular
instance.

From Mrs. Burr.

NEW YORK, September 25, 1785.

Thy orders shall be attended to. Mamma joins in the warmest
assurances of sincerest affection. Theodosia and Sally in perfect
health.

From Mrs. Burr.

NEW YORK, August, 1786.

Bartow has enclosed the papers. Those you mentioned to me on
the night of your departure I cannot forward, as I have forgot the names
of the parties, and they cannot guess them in the office from my descrip-
tion. I hope the disappointment will not be irreparable. . . .

The two girls followed you to the stagehouse, and saw you seated
and drive off. ... I have just determined to take a room at Aunt
Clarke's till Sally recovers her appetite; by the advice of the physician,
we have changed her food from vegetable to animal. A change of air
may be equally beneficial. You shall have a faithful account. . . .
Theodosia has written to you and is anxious lest I should omit
sending it.

To Mrs. Burr.

ALBANY, August, 1786.

Why are you so cautiously silent as to our little Sally? You do
not say that she is better or worse, from which I infer that she is worse.
I am not wholly pleased with your plan of meat diet. It is recom-
mended upon the idea that she has no disorder but a general debility.
All the disorders of this season are apt to be attended with fevers, in
which case animal diet is unfriendly.

HER MOTHER 157

To Mrs. Burr.

ALBANY, August, 1786.

I have judgment for Maunsel against Brown, after a labored argu-
ment. Inform him with my regards.

From Mrs. Burr.

NEW YORK, November, 1787.

Our two dear pledges have an instinctive knowledge of their mother's
bliss. They have been awake all the evening. I have the youngest
in my arms. Our sweet prattler exclaims at every noise, "There's
dear papa," and runs to meet him . . . My spirits and nerves coin-
cide in asking repose. Your daughter commands it. Our dear chil-
dren join in the strongest assurances of honest love.

To Mrs. Burr.

POUGHKEEPSIE, June 29, 1788.

Much love to the smiling little girl. I received her letter but not
the pretty things.

To Mrs. Burr.

ALBANY, November, 1788.

A Captain Randolph will call with Mr. Mersereau. He is a soldier
and an honest man. Give him something to drink. They will an-
swer all your questions.

To Mrs. Burr.

October 21, 1789.

I have this moment received your letter of Sunday evening, con-
taining the account of your alarming accident and most fortunate
rescue and escape. I thank Heaven for your preservation, and thank
you a thousand times for your interesting and particular account of it.

To Mrs. Burr.

ALBANY, October 28, 1789.

The history of your sufferings this moment received. My sym-
pathy was wholly with your unfortunate left hand. The distressing
circumstances respecting your face must certainly be owing to some-
thing more than the mere misfortune of your burn. . . . Frederick

158 THEODOSIA

is the laziest dog in the world for not having written me of your situa-
tion.

To Mrs. Burr.

CLAVERACK, June 27, 1791.

It is surprising that you tell me nothing of Theo. I would by no
means have her writing and arithmetic neglected. It is the part of
her education which is of the most present importance.

From Mrs. Burr.

NEW YORK, June 30, 1791.

The Edwardses dine with me; they had taken lodgings previous
to their arrival in consequence of a report made them by the little
Bodowins (who were at Mrs. Moore's last winter) that my house was
too small and inconvenient to admit of a spare bed. I esteem it a
lucky escape. It would have been impossible for me to have borne
the fatigue. Charlotte is worn out with sleepless nights, laborious
days, and an anxious mind. Hannah constantly drunk. Except
\Yilliam, who is a mere waiter, I have no servant.

From Mrs. Burr.

NEW YORK, July 2, 1791.

Theo never can or will make the progress we would wish while she
has so many avocations. I kept her home a week in hopes Shepherd
would consent to attend her at home, but he absolutely declined it,
as his partners thought it derogatory to their dignity. I was therefore
obliged to submit and permit her to go as usual. She begins to cipher.
Mr. Chevalier attends regularly and I take care she never omits learn-
ing her French lesson. I believe she makes most progress in this.
Mr. St. Aivre never comes; he can get no fiddler, and I am told his
furniture, etc., have been seized by the sheriff. I don't think the
dancing lessons do much good while the weather is so warm; they
fatigue too soon. As to the music, upon the footing it now is she can
never make progress, though she sacrifices two-thirds of her time to
it. 'Tis a serious check to her other acquirements. She must either
have a forte-piano at home or renounce learning it. Her education is
not on an advantageous footing at present. The moment we are alone
she tries to amuse me with her improvement, which the little jade knows
will always command my attention.

HER MOTHER 159

From Mrs. Burr.

NEW YORK, July 3, 1791.

Theo has begun to write several letters, but never finished one.
The only time she has to write is also the hour of general leisure, and,
when once she is interrupted, there is no making her return to work.

To Mrs. Burr.

ALBANY, July 17, 1791.

I hope Theo will learn to ride on horseback. Two or three hours
a day at French and arithmetic will not injure her. Be careful of
green apples, etc.

From Mrs. Burr.

PELHAM, July 23, 1791.

You may command Bartow's attendance here whenever it suits
you, and you have a faithful envoy in Frederick, who will go post with
your commands as often as you wish. It is, indeed, of serious conse-
quence to you to establish your health before you commence poli-
tician: when you once get engaged, your industry will exceed your
strength; your pride cause you to forget yourself. But remember, you
are not your own; there are those who have stronger claims than am-
bition ought to have, or the public can have. . . . Theo is much better;
she writes and ciphers from five in the morning to eight, and also the
same hours in the evening. Theo makes amazing progress at figures.
Though Louisa has worked at them all winter and appeared quite
an adept at first, yet Theo is now before her and assists her to make
her sums. You will really be surprised at her improvement. She
does not ride on horseback, though Frederick has a very pretty riding
horse he keeps for her; but were she to attempt it now, there would
be so much jealousy, and so many would wish to take their turn, that
it would really be impracticable. But we have the best substitute
imaginable. As you gave me leave to dispose of the old wheels as I
pleased, I gave them as my part towards a wagon; we have a good
plain Dutch wagon that I prefer to a carriage when at Pelham, as the
exercise is much better. We ride in numbers and are well jolted, and
without dread. 'Tis the most powerful exercise I know. No spring
seats, but, like so many pigs, we bundle together on straw. Four
miles are equal to twenty. It is really an acquisition. I hope you will
see our little girl rosy cheeked and plump as a partridge.

160 THEODOSIA

From Mrs. Burr.

PELHAM, July 27, 1791.

Hy! ho! for the major. I am tired to death of living in a nursery.
It is very well to be amused with children at an idle hour; but their
interruption at all times is insupportable to a person of common reflec-
tion. My nerves will not admit of it. (Major Prevost was a
widower, and his children were left in the care of Mrs. Burr while
he made a voyage to England.)

Theodosia is quite recovered and makes great progress at ciphering.
I cannot say so much in favor of her writing. We now keep her chiefly
at figures, which she finds very difficult, particularly to proportion
them and place them straight under each other.

To Mrs. Burr.

PHILADELPHIA, October 30, 1791.

Theodosia must not attempt music in the way she was taught last
spring. For the present let it be wholly omitted. Neither would I
have her renew her dancing till the family are arranged. She can
proceed in her French, and get some teacher to attend her in the house
for writing and arithmetic. She has made no progress in the latter
and is even ignorant of the rudiments. She was hurried through
different rules without having been able to do a single sum with ac-
curacy. I would wish her to be also taught geography, if a suitable
teacher can be found.

To Mrs. Burr.

PHILADELPHIA, November 14, 1791.

I expressed myself ill if I led you to believe that I wished any evi-
dence or criterion of Theodosia's understanding. I desire only to
promote its growth by its application and exercise. Her present
employments have no such tendency, unless arithmetic engages a part
of her attention. Than this, nothing can be more useful, or better
advance the object I have in view. ... I have no voice, but could,
undoubtedly, have some influence in the appointment you speak of.
For the man you know I have always entertained much esteem, but it
is here said that he drinks. The effect of the belief, even of the sus-
picion of this, could not be controverted by any exertion or influence
of his friends.

HER MOTHER 161

More than a year before Colonel Burr's marriage,
Judge William Paterson, a life-long friend, wrote
him, wishing him marital felicity. The Judge must
have known of Burr's interest in the Widow Prevost.

RARITAN, April 14, 1780.
My dear Burr :

I take the earliest opportunity of acknowledgeing the receipt of
your dateless letter, and returning you my best thanks for it. Mr. and
Mrs. Reeve have been so kind as to tarry a night with me. We en-
deavored to prevail upon them to pass a few days with us, and should
have been happy if we could have succeeded. ... I wrote you the
latter end of January from the Hermitage and intrusted the letter to
Mrs. Prevost. It was a mere scrawl. This is of the same cast. How-
ever, I promise the very first leisure hour to devote it entirely to you
in the letter way. Although I do not write frequently to you, yet,
believe me, I think frequently of you. Oh, Burr! May you enjoy
health and be completely happy; as much so as I am - - more I cannot
wish you. Nor will you be able to attain high felicity until you experi-
ence such a union as I do.

The Mr. and Mrs. Reeve referred to in the letter
were Judge Tappan Reeve and his wife, formerly
Miss Sarah Burr, the Colonel's only sister.

Burr's letters to his wife, and the opinion ex-
pressed of her years after her death, show that he
was thankful to have been so endowed with a heart
capable of seeing and knowing the innocence, beauty,
and value of the gift which had been bestowed upon
him. Surely love conquers all things- -is immeas-
urably above all ambition, more precious than
wealth, more noble than name. He knows not
life who knows not that - - he has not felt the high-
est faculty of the soul who has not enjoyed it. In
the name of Theodosia, his wife, he wrote the com-
pletion of hope and the summit of happiness. To

I

;

THEODOSIA

have such a love is the only blessing, in comparison
with which all earthly joy is of little value.

That Mrs. Burr's married life was very happy is
proved conclusively by the letters written to her
husband, and from him to her.

From March 4, 1791, to March 4, 1797, Colonel
Burr was a member of the Senate of the United
States, and unable to see his wife and family except
at long intervals. To make the trip from Phila-
delphia to New York, as a rule, took three days,
while a greater period of time was often required
for the journey.

Brief extracts from Colonel Burr's letters to his
wife follow; they cover a wide range of subjects,
as did those written before marriage. Constant
references are made to her health; in fact, she was
an invalid from the time of her marriage until her
death. If Burr had been a heartless man, he would
have deserted her, but he never failed in solicitude
or helpfulness. In the latter part of 1793 he ad-
dressed his letters to his daughter instead of Mrs.
Burr, but in all of them were inquiries as to his
wife's health, and suggestions as to the treatment
of her complaint. The celebrated Dr. Rush lived
in Philadelphia where Congress sat, and Colonel
Burr was in constant communication with him in
reference to her disease.

To Mrs. Burr.
PHILADELPHIA, 19th February, 1791.

It will not do for me at present to leave this place. I shall therefore
expect you here; and if you cannot spare the time to come here, I will
meet you either at Princeton or Trenton (preferring the latter), any
evening you shall name. Saturdays and Sundays, you know, are our

HER MOTHER 163

holydays. I can with ease be at Trenton at breakfast on Saturday
morning, or even Friday evening, if thought more eligible. My rooms
at No. 130 South Second Street are ready to receive you and Mrs. A.,
if she chooses to be of the party. . . . My lodgings are on the right
hand as you come. Drive directly up a white gate between two lamps,
and take possession. If I should be out, the servant will know where,
and will find me in a few minutes. Do not travel with any election
partisan (unless an opponent).

To Mrs. Burr.

PHILADELPHIA, 4th December, 1791.

I fear I have for the present deprived you of the pleasure of reading
Gibbon. If you cannot procure the loan of a London edition, I will
send you that which I have here. In truth, I bought it for you, which
is almost confessing a robbery.

To render any reading really amusing, or in any degree instructive,
you should never pass a word you do not understand, or the name of a
person or place of which you have not some knowledge. After an
experiment of this mode you will never abandon it.

If you have never read Plutarch's Lives (or even if you have), you
will read them with much pleasure. You expressed a curiosity to
peruse Paley's Philosophy and Natural History. When you are weary
of soaring with him, and wish to descend into common life, read the
Comedies of Plautus. The reading of one book will invite you to
another. I cannot, I fear, at this distance, advise you successfully;
much less can I hope to assist you in your reading. Your complaint
of your memory, even if founded in fact, contains nothing discourag-
ing or alarming. I would not wish you to possess that kind of memory
which retains with accuracy and certainty all names and dates. I never
knew it to accompany much invention or fancy. It is almost the exclu-
sive blessing of dullness. The mind which perceives clearly, adopts
and appropriates an idea, and is thus enlarged and invigorated. It is
of little moment whether the book, the time, or the occasion be recol-
lected.

To Mrs. Burr.

PHILADELPHIA, December 13, 1791.

Tell Bartow that I have this evening received his letter by Vining,
who arrived in town last Monday. Beg him never again to write by a

164 THEODOSIA

private hand about business when there is a post. ... I was charmed
with your reflections on the books of two of our eminent characters.
You have, in a few words, given a lively portrait of the men and their
works. I could not repress the vanity of showing it to a friend of one
of the authors.

To Mrs. Burr.

PHILADELPHIA, December 15, 1791.

Your "nonsense" about Voltaire contains more good sense than
all the strictures I have seen upon his works put together. Next to
your own ideas, those you gave me from Mr. J. were most acceptable.
I wish you would continue to give me any fugitive ideas or remarks
which may occur to you in the course of your reading; and what you
call your rattling way, is that of all things which pleases me the most.
In short, let the way be your own, and it cannot fail to be acceptable,
to please, and to amuse.

To Mrs. Burr.
PHILADELPHIA, 18th December, 1791.

Your account of Madame Genlis surprises me, and is a new evi-
dence of the necessity of reading books before we put them into the
hands of children. Reputation is indeed a precarious test. . . .

You would excuse the slovenliness, and admire the length of this
scrawl, if you could look into my study and see the file of unanswered
and even unperused letters ; bundles of papers on public and on private
business; all soliciting that preference of attention which Theodosia

knows how to command from her —

AARON.

To Mrs. Burr.

PHILADELPHIA, 27th December, 1791.

This evening I am suffering under a severe paroxysm of the head-
ache. Your letters received to-night have tended to beguile the time,
and were at least a temporary relief. I am now sitting with my feet
in warm water, my head wrapped in vinegar, and drinking chamomile
tea, and all hitherto to little purpose. ... I am charmed with your
account of Theodosia. Kiss her a hundred times for me.

I have been these three weeks procuring two trifles to send you;
but am at length out of all patience with the stupidity and procrasti-
nation of those employed; especially as the principal article is a piece
of furniture, a personal convenience, which, when done, will not cost

HER MOTHER 165

five dollars. The other is something between a map and a picture.
Though they will not arrive at the season I had wished, they will at

any season be tokens of the affection of

A. BURR.

To Mrs. Burr.

PHILADELPHIA, 18th January, 1793.

I wrote you yesterday and have nothing to add respecting myself;
and only a repetition of my prayers for you, with my most affectionate
and anxious wishes.

To Mrs. Burr.

PHILADELPHIA, 8th February, 1793.

You may recollect that I left a memorandum of what Theo was to
learn. I hope it has been strictly attended to. Desire Gurney not
to attempt to teach her anything about the "concords." I will show
him how I choose that should be done when I return, which, I thank
God, is but three weeks distant

I have been out but once, half an hour at Mrs. P's, a concert; but
I call often at Mrs. L's. I am more and more struck with the native
good sense of one of that family, and more and more disgusted with
the manner in which it is observed and perverted. Cursed effects of
fashionable education, of which both sexes are the advocates, and yours
eminently the victims. If I could foresee that Theo would become a
mere fashionable woman, with all the attendant frivolity and vacuity
of mind, adorned with whatever grace and allurement, I would earnestly
pray God to take her forthwith hence. But I yet hope by her, to con-
vince the world what neither sex appears to believe — that women have
souls.

To Mrs. Burr.

PHILADELPHIA, 15th February, 1793.

It was a knowledge of your mind which first inspired me with a
respect for that of your sex, and with some regret, I confess, that the
ideas which you have often heard me express in favor of female intel-
lectual powers are founded on what I have imagined, more than what
I have seen, except in you. I have endeavored to trace the causes of
this rare display of genius in women, and find them in the errors of
education, of prejudice, and of habit. I admit that men are equally,
nay more, much more to blame than women. Boys and girls are
generally educated much in the same way until they are eight or nine

166 THEODOSIA

years of age, and it is admitted that girls make at least equal progress
with the boys; generally, indeed, they make better. Why, then, has
it never been thought worth the attempt to discover, by fair experi-
ment, the particular age at which the male superiority becomes so
evident? ... I do not like Theo's indolence, or the apologies which
are made for it. Have my directions been pursued with regard to
her Latin and geography ?

To Mrs. Burr.
PHILADELPHIA, 16th February, 1793.

You have heard me speak of Miss Wollstonecraft, who has written
something on the French revolution; she has also written a book en-
titled " Vindication of the Rights of Woman." I had heard it spoken of
with a coldness little calculated to excite attention; but as I read with
avidity and prepossession everything written by a lady, I made haste
to procure it, and spent the last night, almost the whole of it, in reading
it. Be assured that your sex has in her an able advocate. It is, in
my opinion, a work of genius. She has successfully adopted the style
of Rousseau's Emilius, and her comment on that work, especially
what relates to female education, contains more good sense than all
the other criticisms upon him which I have seen put together.
I promise myself much pleasure in reading it to you. Is it owing to
ignorance or prejudice that I have not met a single person who had
discovered or would allow the merit of this work ?

To Mrs. Burr.
PHILADELPHIA, 18th February, 1793.

Be assured that after what you have written I shall not send for
Gurney. Deliver him the enclosed. I hope it may animate his atten-
tion; and tell him, if you think proper, that I shall be much dissatisfied
if Theo's progress in Latin be not very considerable at my return.
Geography has, I hope, been abandoned, for he has no talent at teach-
ing it.

To Mrs. Burr.

24th December, 1793.

Since being at this place I have had several conversations with Dr.
Rush respecting your distressing illness, and I have reason to believe
that he has given the subject some reflection. He has this evening

HER MOTHER 167

called on me and given me his advice that you should take hemlock.
He says that in the way in which it is usually prepared, you should
commence with a dose of one-tenth of a grain, and increase as you
may find you can bear it; that it has the narcotic powers of opium,
superadded to other qualities. When the dose is too great, it may be
discovered by vertigo or giddiness; and that he has known it to work
wonderful cures. I was the more pleased with this advice, as I had
not told him that you had been in the habit of using this medicine;
the concurrence of his opinion gave me great faith in it. God grant
that it may restore your health, and to your affectionate

A. BURR.
To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 31st December, 1793.

You see I never let your letters remain a day unanswered, in which
I wish you would imitate me. ... I suspect your last journal was
not written from day to day, but all on one, or at most two days, from
memory. How is this ? Ten or fifteen minutes every evening would
not be an unreasonable sacrifice from you to me. . . . Give a place
to your mamma's health in your journal. Omit the formal conclusion
of your letters, and write your name in a larger hand. . . .

This day's mail has brought me nothing from you. I have but
two letters in three, almost four, weeks and the journal is ten days in
arrear. What — can neither affection nor civility induce you to de-
vote to me the small portion of time which I have required ? Are
authority and compulsion, then, the only engines by which you can
be moved? For shame, Theo! Do not give me reason to think so
ill of you.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 4th January, 1794.

At the moment of closing the mail yesterday, I received your letter
enclosing the pills. I cannot refer to it by date as it has none. Tell
me truly did you write it without assistance ? Is the language and
spelling your own ? If so, it does you much honor. The subject of
it obliged me to show it to Dr. Rush, which I did with great pride.
He inquired your age half a dozen times, and paid some handsome
compliments to the handwriting, the style, and the correctness of your
letter.

The account of your mamma's health distresses me extremely.

168 THEODOSIA

If she does not get better soon, I will quit Congress altogether and go
home. . . .

My last letter to you was almost an angry one, at which you cannot
be much surprised when you recollect the length of time of your silence,
and that you are my only correspondent respecting the concerns of my
family. I expect, on Monday or Tuesday next, to receive the continua-
tion of your journal for the fortnight past.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 7th January, 1794.

The following are the only misspelled words: You write acurate
for accurate; laudnam for laudanum; intirely for entirely, this last word,
indeed, is spelled both ways, but entirely is the most usual and the
most proper. Continue to use all these words in your next letter, that
I may see that you know the true spelling. And tell me what is lau-
danum ? Where and how made ? And what are its effects ?

" It was what she had long wished for, and was at a loss how to pro-
cure it."

Don't you see that this sentence would have been perfect and much
more elegant without the last it ? By the by, I took the liberty to erase
the redundant it before I showed the letter.

I am extremely impatient for your further account of your mamma's
health. The necessity of laudanum twice a day is a very disagreeable
and alarming circumstance.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 10th January, 1794.

I fear that you will imagine that I have been inattentive to your
last request about Dr. Rush; but the truth is, I can get nothing satis-
factory out of him. He enumerates over to me all the articles which
have been repeatedly tried, and some of which did never agree with
your mamma. He is, however, particularly desirous that she should
again try milk — a spoonful only at a time: another attempt, he thinks,
should be made with porter, in some shape or other. Sweet oil, molasses
and milk, in equal proportions, he has known to agree with stomachs
which had rejected everything else. Yet he says, and with show of
reason, that these things depend so much on the taste, the habits of
life, the peculiarity of constitution, that she and her attending physician

HER MOTHER 169

can be the best, if not the only advisers. It gives me very great pleasure
to learn that she is now better.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 13th January, 1794.

Dr. Rush says that he cannot conceive animal food to be particularly
necessary; nourishment is the great object. He approves much of the
milk punch and chocolate. The stomach must on no account be
offended. The intermission of the pills for a few days (not, however,
for a whole week) he thinks not amiss to aid in determining its effects.
The quantity may yet be increased without danger, but the present
dose is, in his opinion, sufficient; but after some days' continual use,
a small increase might be useful. . . .

I have a letter from Mr. Leshlie, which pays you many compliments.
He has also ventured to promise that you will every day get a lesson
in Terence by yourself.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 16th January, 1794.

I hope the mercury, if tried, will be used with the most vigilant
caution and the most attentive observation of its first effects. I am
extremely anxious and apprehensive about the event of such an experi-
ment. . . .

On Sunday se'nnight (I think the 26th) I shall, unless baffled or
delayed by ice or weather, be with you at Richmond Hill. ... I con-
tinue the practice of scoring words for our mutual improvement. I
am sure you will be charmed with the Greek language above all others.

Reference has been made to a letter written by
Mrs. Burr, soon after her marriage, to Mrs. Sarah
Reeve, which letter, however, did not mention when
the marriage took place or the clergyman's name.

On Sunday, August 3, 1788, she wrote from New
York to her brother-in-law, Tappan Reeve, Esq.,
at Litchfield, Conn., as follows:

For what reason, my dear friends, have you omitted writing to us
ever since you were here ? I can learn nothing satisfactory since you

170 THEODOSIA

left Hartford. Do relieve my anxiety wthout delay. My health and
spirits were in melancholy unison till the 9th of July, when I had a
most unfortunate lying-in, in every particular resembling the one in
February, '87 — another lovely boy expired seven hours before its
birth. Its mother had nearly shared its fate, but Heaven in pity to
her helpless family, to her daughter's tears, has deigned to restore her
to them. During her illness she received every token of affection and
anxiety from those she loved. This is the only alleviation we can pos-
sibly have to our sufferings. Colonel Burr left home a week since to
attend the Supreme Court, now sitting at Albany. I wrote you a
long letter two months ago, but by some strange fatality it was twice
returned to me. I determined not to trust it to chance a third time,
so destroyed it - - after that my thoughts were too dull to demand the
sympathy of friendship. Yours, my two dear friends, have left an
indelible impression on my heart. I shall recollect it with gratitude -
with unfeigned affection - - to my latest breath. I am recovering
beyond expectation. I wish I may have as favorable accounts from
my Sally. Theo's health is remarkably good. She wishes me to hold
her pen while she writes to Burr "Kiss him for me," but I am too
fatigued even to continue this scrawl. Every good angel watch over
you and love you, as does your friend in verity, „ -„

On April 20, 1789, she wrote to Mrs. Reeve,
mourning the loss of a dear friend, but giving no
information as to her individuality:

From day to day, for some weeks past, I have wished to write to
my much loved friends, but have not been able to summon resolution
for the task. I requested Colonel Burr to do it for me. I hope he
has. I am, my friends, the child of sorrow. My task is too great for
human nature to support. Many and varied have my scenes of anguish
been, but this exceeds them all. A tender, affectionate friend, just
opening into life, with every unfolding virtue, guileless, innocent,
sincere, beautiful and flushed with health till the sly viper stole upon
her vitals, there preyed, unperceived by herself or those around her
till too late; aid proved vain. She passed gently from me to the regions
of bliss, without even suspecting her approaching fate. Yes, my Sally,
she is there — gone a little while before me — but a little and I shall
be with her, where sorrow dare not intrude; with her, smile at the dis-

HER MOTHER 171

appointments that have here harrowed up my soul; a complication of
sorrows have long clouded every cheerful thought — this darkens
all. Perhaps she has flown from innumerable sorrows. If her fate
derived any influence from mine, she has certainly escaped much.
Heaven took her gently from the impending storm, when her heart was
best fitted to meet its God. She had nothing to regret, but all to hope.
'Tis I who must regret. My constant companion; not a moment
passes but speaks my loss — the vacant apartments echo an angel gone.
My heart is so oppressed with sadness, my dear, that I can write
no more. Let me hear from you; let me see you, if possible. Adieu.

Invariably yours,

T. BURR.

Living in close proximity to the early hostilities
of the Revolutionary War, Mrs. Prevost became
acquainted with both American and British officers.
Her brother, Peter De Visme, was captured at sea
and made prisoner of war. She solicited General
Washington's influence to promote his exchange,
to which the General replied:

,., , HEADQUARTERS, MIDDLEBROOK, 19th May, 1779.

It is much to be regretted that the pleasure of obeying the first
emotions in favor of misfortune is not always in our power. I should
be happy could I consider myself at liberty to comply with your request
in the case of your brother, Mr. Peter De Visme. But, as I have
heretofore taken no direction in the disposal of marine prisoners, I
cannot, with propriety, interfere on the present occasion, however great
the satisfaction I should feel in obliging where you are interested.
Your good sense will perceive this, and find a sufficient excuse in the
delicacy of my situation.

I have the honor to be, madam,

Your obedient servant,

GEORGE WASHINGTON.

Colonel James Monroe, afterwards Governor of
Virginia, then Minister to France, and subsequently
President of the United States, at the outbreak of

172 THEODOSIA

the war was a student at the College of William
and Mary in Virginia. Like Burr, he left his studies
in 1776 to join the Continental Army. He took part
as Lieutenant in the New Jersey campaign, and was
wounded at the Battle of Trenton. The next year
he served with the rank of Major on the staff of Gen-
eral William Alexander (Lord Sterling) , but that being
out of the line of promotion, he soon found himself
without military employment. Having been disabled
by wounds from more active service, it was question-
able with him whether to return to his studies in Vir-
ginia or, by embarking for Europe, escape the conflict
of arms, in which he was now ill-prepared to partici-
pate. During his campaigns in New Jersey, like
other young officers of the army, he was a frequent
guest and welcome visitor at the Hermitage, the home
of the De Vismes, of which Mrs. Prevost was a mem-
ber. In his absence either on military duty or from
disability from wounds, like Burr, he held himself in
happy remembrance by frequent correspondence.
One of his letters has been preserved among the
papers of Burr in the hands of his biographer ; as an
item of interest, illustrative of the gallantry of the
times, it is here presented. It bears the date Phila-
delphia, November 8, 1778.

A young lady who either is, or pretends to be, in love, is, you know,
my dear Mrs. Prevost, the most unreasonable creature in existence.
If she looks a smile or a frown which does not immediately give or
deprive you of happiness (at least in appearance) your company soon
becomes very insipid. Each feature has its beauty, and each attitude
the graces, or you have no judgment. But if you are so stupidly in-
sensible of her charms as to deprive your tongue and eyes of every
expression of admiration, and not only to be silent respecting her, but
devote them to an absent object, she can not receive a higher insult;

Hon. James Monroe, a friend of Theodosia's mother
President of the United States, 1817—1824.

HER MOTHER 173

nor would she, if not restrained by politeness, refrain from open re-
sentment. Upon this principle I think I stand excused for not writing
from Blue Ridge. I proposed it, however, and after meeting with

opposition in to obtain her point, she promised to visit the little

Hermitage and make my excuses herself. I took occasion to turn
the conversation to a different object, and pleaded for permission to
go to France. I gave up in one instance and she certainly ought in
the other. But writing a letter and going to France are very different,
you will perhaps say. She objected to it, and all the arguments which
a fond, devoted, and delicate unmarried lady could use, she did not
fail to produce against it. ... I painted a lady, full of affection, of
tenderness, and sensibility, separated from her husband for a series of
time by the cruelties of war, her uncertainties respecting his health,
the pain and anxiety which must naturally arise from it. I represented,
in the most pathetic terms, the disquietudes which, from the nature
of her connection, might possibly intrude on her domestic retreat.
I then raised to her view fortitude under distress; cheerfulness, life,
and gayety in the midst of affection. I hope you will forgive me, my
dear little friend, if I produced you to give life to the image. The
instance, she owned, was applicable. She felt for you from her heart,
and she has a heart capable of feeling. She wished not a misfortune
similar to yours; but if I was resolved to make it so, she would strive
to imitate your example.

Mr. Monroe then refers to the proposed action
of the Whigs to deprive Mrs. Prevost of her estate.

I was unfortunate in not being able to meet with the Governor.
He was neither at Elizabethtown, Blue Ridge, Princeton, or Trenton.
I have consulted with several members of Congress on the occasion.
They own the injustice, but cannot interfere. The laws of each State t
must govern itself. They cannot conceive the possibility of its taking
place. General Lee says it must not take place, and if he was an abso-
lute monarch, he would issue an order to prevent it, in a very peremp-
tory manner. I cannot determine, with certainty, what I shall do
until my arrival in Virginia.

Make my compliments to Mrs. and Miss De Visme, and believe
me, with the sincerity of friendship,

JAMES MONROE.

174 THEODOSIA

During his wife's sickness, Colonel Burr offered
to resign his position as Senator and return to New
York, but Mrs. Burr interposed a strenuous objec-
tion. She died in the spring of 1794. Her death
was due, undoubtedly, to an internal cancer, prob-
ably in the stomach, for the treatment advised by
Dr. Rush was accompanied with the special caution
that the stomach must not be overloaded or irri-
tated in any way. Her age, at the time of her mar-
riage, has always been given as thirty-six; at her
demise she must have been in her forty-eighth year.
A careful study of reference works fails to disclose
the place of burial, and, so far as known, no por-
trait of her is in existence.

CHAPTER IX

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION

THEODOSIA, born June 23, 1783, was the
only living child of Colonel Burr and Mrs.
Theodosia Prevost Burr. The qualifying word
"living' is used because, as stated in the previous
chapter, Mrs. Burr lost two boys on account
of premature birth. Her infancy was passed in
Albany, where her parents resided at the time of
her birth.

Her father had a great contempt for the frivolous
educations given women at that time. A young
girl had but two possible futures: one was to re-
main a lifelong charge on her parents or relatives;
the other was to get married. The majority of them
had independence enough to escape the first condi-
tion, if possible, so the goal of woman's ambition,
in those days, was to become a wife. Although
the men, as a rule, were highly educated, being
college graduates, it was not thought essential
that women should be their peers so far as what
might be called a "literary' education was con-
cerned. They embroidered, they worked samplers,
played the forte-piano, sang despondent love songs,
calculated to awaken the sympathies of their
bachelor friends, and did not consider it "sudden'
when their limited educational acquirements, coupled,

175

176 THEODOSIA

undoubtedly, with as much physical charm as the
women of any nation or time ever had, led to a
proposal of marriage. They were 'cribbed and
confined' by a stagnant environment. Those were
the days of feasts and spirituous comfort, and the
heads of families had the cream of such enjoyments,
leaving but a modicum for their daughters and
spouses. All men had a chance to become great;
a woman was a woman, and there was no wish for
her to be anything else.

Burr had read Lord Chesterfield's letters, and
the foundation thus laid for his own self-education
was later built upon by the works of Mrs. Inch-
bald and Mary Wollstonecraft. His eyes were
opened, and he determined to give his daughter
an education as much like a man's as possible, with-
out subordinating, too greatly, the purely feminine
characteristics. Burr believed, a century and a
quarter ago, in the advanced education of women,
and it can be truthfully said, to his credit, that he
created a new order of womanhood. Take from
him all credit that legitimately belongs to others,
but, with justice, leave him what is rightfully his.

A member of the Burr family in a letter, says,
speaking of a prominent literary woman of the
present day: "Such women hold their positions
because of the work done years ago by Burr and
men like him.': He added: 'I remember reading
the diary and letters of a writer eighty years ago
(Mrs. Walter Browne) who spoke of Theodosia
being at Saratoga and noted for her learning.'

Another member of the family writes: The
fact, too, that Burr had a picture of Mary Woll-

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 177

stonecraft over his mantelpiece suggests that his
treatment and estimation of women intellectually
ought to be re-examined, in view of the higher
evolution of womanhood at the present time. What
Cheetham did for Paine, what Griswold did for
Poe, did not Davis do for Burr? The first little
biographer often writes the great man down to his
level, and sets the time that it takes generations
to learn the truth. Notice what Wm. H. Seward
and Thurlow Weed said about Burr and his cor-
respondence in their autobiographies and reminis-
cences. If there was any dawn of the new sunrise
in Burr, such men could never perceive it.':

An author of the present day, of world-wide
reputation, says (58) :

"Aaron Burr, whose homicidal (?) and treason-
able ( ?) deeds have been thrown into the shade
by more splendid achievements of the kind in our
day, was certainly in advance of the men of his
time in his ideas on the capacity and education of
women.

"There was no namby-pamby sentimentality in
his method of training a clever, ambitious girl. He
reared his daughter, Theodosia, to be the com-
panion and equal of men of the highest intelligence
and the most liberal culture - philosophers and
statesmen. In his intense fatherly love and pride,
he gave to her development and instruction the
most watchful care and patient labor. The result
was, I doubt not, all he wished for - - a strong,
pure, proud, self-poised womanhood, beautiful and
gracious. Yet one thing seems to have been lack-
ing to render it quite symmetrical, lovable, and

178 THEODOSIA

happy — the religious element. If the Edwards
faith and spirituality had descended to her with
the Edwards will and intellect, she would have been,
indeed,

"' A perfect woman, nobly planned.' '

Mrs. Lippincott could have added, truthfully,
that the religious element, if not by way of descent,
was supplied by her mother's teaching and example,
and it is a remarkable but never before credited
fact, that in Burr's correspondence with his wife
and daughter, and in his Journal in Europe, there
cannot be found a word, sentence, or paragraph
by which he endeavored to influence them, in any
way, with matters connected with religion. If it
be contended that he was an infidel judged by the
prevailing religious tenets of the period, it surely
is to his credit that he did not try to make pros-
elytes of his wife and daughter, but left to them,
uninfluenced by him, the full exercise of their reli-
gious feelings. Such conduct stands out nobly
in contrast with that of many who have escaped
the charge of infidelity, but not those of intolerance
and persecution.

That Theodosia's mother was a religious woman
is shown conclusively by the following extract from
a letter written by her 6th March, 1781:

'May her afflicted spirit find the only solace of
its woes — Religion, Heaven's greatest boon to
man, the only distinction he ought to boast. In
this he is lord of the creation; without it, the most
pitiable of all created things. . . . I promise myself
many happy hours dedicated at the shrine of religion.9'

; Grace Greenwood" (Mrs. S. J. Lippincott.)

Mrs. Harriette Clarke Sprague, 5th cousin to Theodosia.

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 179

Here is an example of modern appreciation of
Burr's method of instruction (59) :

Theodosia, the daughter of Aaron Burr, is described as one of the
most brilliant of American women. To her father she was an object
of pride as well as passionate affection, and the intensity of the daughter's
devotion could not have been exceeded. She inherited his mental
as well as his physical graces, and the brilliancy of her mind was as
notable as the beauty of her person.

Whatever ambitions Aaron Burr may have had, the love of the
father seems to have been capable of transcending them all in priority
of interest. He had his own ideal of womanhood, and he devoted
himself to forming her mind and training her character in accordance
with that ideal. It so followed that at an age when other little girls
were concerned almost wholly with the welfare of their dolls, Theo-
dosia had been taught, in her tenth year, to read Horace and Terence
in the original Latin. She moreover spoke French with remarkable
grace and was an apt pupil in Greek.

Burr constituted himself her chief tutor, and was careful not to
neglect her physical education, and she grew up with every wholesome
feminine charm encouraged. It was not considered prudent, in that
age, to foster independence of thought and self-reliance in girls, but
Burr was assiduous in instilling into Theodosia the utmost freedom
of intellectual view.

Theodosia, in some respects, did not pass a lonely
childhood. To her mother's grief, and her own,
however, her father's long absences from home on
legal business, and his attendance at the sessions
of the United States Senate, could not be avoided.
Had it not been for these enforced absences from
home pleasures, we should not have those always
interesting and sometimes delightful letters written
by Colonel Burr to his wTife and daughter, from
which copious extracts have already been taken.
Such letters are truer indices of a man's real char-
acter than his speeches or his public acts.

180 THEODOSIA

To-day we revel in reminiscences and autobiog-
raphies. The great authors, actors, statesmen, and
soldiers have left behind them diaries and letters
which are eagerly sought and brought together by
biographers who ask us to revise opinions formed
upon what they show us wras inadequate knowledge
or hastily accepted prejudiced opinions of others.

The Burr family included the father and mother,
both well known to us, Theodosia, the daughter,
the subject of this volume, and Frederick A. J. and
John Bartow Prevost, sons of Mrs. Prevost, and
stepsons of Colonel Burr. There was also a cer-
tain "Sally," often referred to in Mrs. Burr's letters,
but whose relationship is not disclosed therein.

Colonel Burr considered his stepsons as his own.
The British general, Augustine Prevost, was their
uncle, but he does not seem to have taken any par-
ticular interest in them. They were young, how-
ever, at the time of his death in England, in 1786.

Among Colonel Burr's army friends was one
Major R. Alden. The major's pay for services
was not forthcoming, and would have had little
real money value if he had received it. Early in
1781, nearly a year and a half before his marriage,
Colonel Burr offered the Major a position as tutor
in Mrs. Pre vest's family to teach his stepsons,
offering him sixty pounds New York currency a
year, and the use of his office and library without
expense. In order to remove still further the pos-
sible sting of charity, Burr said in his letter: ' Your
ostensible ^eason for coming here shall be to pur-
sue your (law) studies with me under my friend
Mr. Paterson." Referring to his stepsons, Burr

Hon. Robert R. Livingston.

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 181

wrote: "The two boys I wish you to instruct are
of the sweetest tempers and the softest hearts. A
frown is the severest punishment they need. Four
hours a day will, I think, be fully sufficient for
their instruction. There are hours enough left
for study — as many as any one can improve to
advantage, and these four will be fully made up
to you by the assistance you will receive from such
of us as have already made some small progress.'1
That Major Alden did not accept the position
does not detract from the credit due Colonel Burr
for his interest in his future stepsons, or for his
kindly offer of assistance to a needy friend.

In order that Theodosia might have the advan-
tage of conversing in French with a Frenchwoman,
Miss Nathalie de L'Age became a member of
Colonel Burr's family. M. L. Davis says of her
(60) : "Miss Nathalie de L'Age was a young French
woman of highly respectable family. She after-
wards married Thomas Sumter, son of General
Sumter, one of the Carolina partisan celebrities
of the Revolution.'1

When Robert R. Livingston went as minister
to France, he was accompanied by his wife, two
daughters, with their husbands, who were both
named Robert Livingston, Miss De L'Age, and
Mr. Sumter, his Secretary of Legation. They sailed
on the frigate Boston, commanded by a Captain
Macniel, who is called "a nautical madman' by
Davis. The voyage was a boisterous and perilous
one, but love laughs at storms as well as at lock-
smiths, and on their arrival in Paris Miss De L'Age
became Mrs. Sumter. Mr. Sumter was Minister

182 THEODOSIA

Plenipotentiary to Brazil for ten years, whither
Mrs. Sumter accompanied him. Her portrait was
painted by St. Memin, an account of whom, and
his work in America, will be found in Chapter
XVIII.

One of the most interesting of Miss Theodosia's
letters was written when she was about nine years
old, to her step-brother, A. J. Frederick Prevost,
to whom she was greatly attached, particularly so,
later in life, when her father was in Europe. He
became a farmer, and the "good pig" referred to in
the letter was probably one of his own raising.

PELLHAM, October the 20th, 1792.
Dear Brother:

I hope the mumps have left you. Mine left me a week ago.

Mrs. Allen is come from Philadelphia and talks no more of going
to live there.

Papa has been here and is gone again. He and the Frenchman
has had a fray, so he keeps in fine order. The day before papa (went)
away we had your good pig for diner. Mama was not very well that
day. We three dined upstairs and the Frenchman below. Papa sent
what he would have for diner; he sent word back again that all the diner
should be brought befor him and he would see what he would have,
so papa sent down beef and pig; he said he did not understand his
dining below without papa and me.

Mr. Chapron is in Philadelphia at the point of death with the putrid
fever, and Mr. Luet, an english music master, had an elegant forte-
piano which papa bought for me; it cost 33 Guineas, and it is just
come home.

I am tired of affectionate, not of being it but of writing it, so I leave
it out; I am your sister,

THEODOSIA B. BURR.

It will be noticed that Theodosia used the initial
"B' in her name, presumably for "Bartow," the
middle name of her other step-brother.

f

e/tii.

Miss Nathalie de L'Age, Theodosia's P'rench companion.

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 183

Many references are made by writers to Lord
Chesterfield's Letters, but usually only short quota-
tions are given. Colonel Burr is said to have studied
them and made them a guide in his intercourse
with society. If his idea was to educate a daughter
as near like a son as possible, it is probable that
Theodosia read some of the Letters, if not all, and
they may have influenced the formation of her
character, as they are said to have done that of her
father. An edition of the " Letters' was published
recently (61).

That Colonel Burr had praised the Chesterfield-
ian system of education to Mrs. Prevost is evident
from a letter written by her of date February 10,
1781, at which time she was in Litchfield, Conn.,
probably residing with Colonel Burr's sister, Mrs.
Tappan Reeve.

From Mrs. Prevost to Colonel Burr.

I am happy that there is a post established. I will not say the same
of your system of education. Rousseau has completed his work. The
indulgence you applaud in Chesterfield is the only part of his writings
I think reprehensible. Such lessons from so able a pen are dangerous
to a young mind, and ought never to be read till the judgment and heart
are established in virtue. If Rousseau's ghost can reach this quarter
of the globe, he will certainly haunt you for this scheme — 'tis striking
at the root of his design, and destroying the main purport of his ad-
mirable production. Les foiblesses de I'humanite is an easy apology.

When all the world turns envoys, Chesterfield will be their proper
guide. Morality and virtue are not necessary qualifications — those
only are to be attended to that tend to the public weal. But when
parents have no ambitious views, or, rather, when they are of the more
exalted kind, when they wish to form a happy, respectable member of
society — a firm, pleasing support to their declining life, Emilius shall
be the model. A man so formed must be approved by his Creator, and
more useful to mankind than ten thousand modern beaux of society.

184 THEODOSIA

Mrs. Prevost was more in sympathy with the
teachings of Jean Jacques Rousseau than with
those of Chesterfield. Theodosia was fortunate in
having her character moulded in conformity with the
two most popularly approved systems of the time.
To what can we point to-day as their worthiest
successors ?

But Theodosia's education was not influenced en-
tirely by Rousseau or Chesterfield. It is said that
Burr sat up all night to read "A Vindication of the
Rights of Woman," written by Mary Wollstonecraft,
who, after a tempestuous life, became the wife of the
celebrated William Godwin. Dying in childbirth, she
left a daughter, who became the second wife of the
poet Percy Bysshe Shelley. By one author (62) it is
maintained that on the principles inculcated in Mary
Wollstonecraft's book, Theodosia's mental and moral
development were based.

Here is the general principle found in the work
"A Vindication of the Rights of Woman" (63):

The main argument is built on this simple principle, that if woman
be not prepared by education to become the companion of man, she
will stop the progress of knowledge, for the truth must be common to
all, or it will be inefficacious with respect to its influence on general
practice. And how can woman be expected to co-operate, unless she
know why she ought to be virtuous ? - - unless freedom strengthen her
reason till she comprehend her duty, and see in what manner it is con-
nected with her real good. If children are to be educated to under-
stand the true principle of patriotism, their mother must be a patriot;
and the love of mankind, from which an orderly train of virtue springs,
can only be produced by considering the moral and civil interest of
mankind; but the education and situation of woman at present shuts
her out from such investigations.

Mary Wollstonecraft, writing in 1791, contended

Mary Wollstonecraft, who wrote " A Vindication of the

Rights of Woman."

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 185

that the Government should establish day schools, in
which boys and girls should be educated together

- thus making herself a pioneer in co-education.
She did not think young children should be con-
fined to any sedentary employment for more than
an hour at a time. She believed in relaxation and
exercises to improve and amuse the senses - - thus
suggesting the kindergarten. She advocated indus-
trial training for both boys and girls, particularly
domestic employments for girls, and mechanical
trades for boys, being a century in advance of the
modern realization of her ideas.

She was not averse to advanced education for
young people of superior abilities or fortune, but
thought the principal objection to co-education
came from parents, who were not willing to allow
their children to choose companions for life them-
selves.

The publication of the work proved startling and
many were shocked, but its purpose was misunder-
stood. Mr. Paul says (64):

'In the carrying out of her argument, the most
noticeable fact is the extraordinary plainness of
speech, and this it was that caused nearly all the
outcry. For Mary Wollstonecraft did not, as has
been supposed, attack the institution of Marriage,
she did not assail orthodox religion, she did not
directly claim much w^hich at the present day is
claimed for women by those whose arguments
obtain respectful hearing. The book was really
a plan for equality of education, a protest against
being deemed only the plaything of man, an asser-
tion that the intellectual rather than the sexual

186 THEODOSIA

intercourse was that which should chiefly be desired
in marriage, and which made it lasting happiness."

Burr showed the book to all of his friends. He
wrote: 'Is it owing to ignorance or prejudice that
I have not yet met a single person who had discov-
ered or would allow the merit of this work?"

One of Burr's biographers speaks thus of the
book (65):

The work, indeed, was fifty years in advance
of the time; for it anticipated all that is rational
in the opinions respecting the position and educa-
tion of women which are now held by the ladies
who are stigmatized as strong-minded, as well as
by John Mill, Herbert Spencer, and other econ-
omists of the modern school. It demanded fair
play for the understanding of women. It pro-
claimed the essential equality of the sexes. It
denounced the awful libertinism of that age, and
showed that the weakness, the ignorance, the van-
ity, and the seclusion of women prepared them to
become the tool and minion of bad men's lust. . .
It is a really noble and brave little book, undeserv-
ing the oblivion into which it has fallen. No intel-
ligent woman, no wise parent with daughters to
rear, could read it now without pleasure and ad-
vantage.'1

The 'oblivion' is doubtless due to the fact that
the reforms called for in the book have been, in a
great measure, accomplished, and new advances
in reform now claim the attention of progressive
minds. There are books being published to-day
which must await an intelligent posterity of readers
to appreciate them. Mr. Parton says that the book

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 187

was fifty years in advance of the time. Burr ap-
preciated its teachings and applied them in the edu-
cation of his daughter — consequently, it must
be acknowledged, as the book's teachings are now
accepted, that Burr's ideas in regard to education
were half a century ahead of the time in which he
lived.

Parton says further: "In those days an educated
woman was among the rarest of rarities. The
wives of many of our most renowned Revolutionary
leaders were surprisingly illiterate. Except the
noble wife of John Adams, whose letters form so
agreeable an oasis in the published correspondence
of the time, it would be difficult to mention the
name of one lady of the Revolutionary period who
could have been a companion to the mind of a man
of culture. Mrs. Burr, on the contrary, was the
equal of her husband in literary discernment, and
his superior in moral judgment. . . . She relished
all of Chesterfield except the 'indulgence' which
Burr thought essential. She had a weakness for
Rousseau, but was not deluded by his sentimen-
tality."

Parton thinks that Theodosia's education was
conducted in the spirit of Mary Wollstonecraft's
book. He says her mind had fair play and that her
father took it for granted that she could learn what
a boy of the same age could learn, and he gave her
precisely the same advantages which he would have
given a son, and which he did give to her two step-
brothers.

Mrs. Peacock writes: 'It is but a negative trib-
ute to say that she was by far the best educated

188 THEODOSIA

woman of her time and country. In the beauty
of her mind and person she realized her father's
ideal of a perfect woman, and amply satisfied his
pride and vanity. On the eve of his duel with
Hamilton, he wrote to her, You have completely
satisfied all that my heart and affections had hoped
for, or ever wished.'

A genealogist thus refers to Theodosia (66) :

"She was carefully educated under the direct
and constant supervision of her father. Besides
the usual accomplishments, she was proficient in
the Greek, Latin, German, and French languages,
and familiar with the best works of ancient and
modern writers."

Parton enumerates her accomplishments thus:
"In her tenth year she was reading Horace and
Terence in the original Latin, learning the Greek
grammar, speaking French, studying Gibbon, prac-
tising on the piano, taking lessons in dancing, and
learning to skate. "

Writers of the present day still dwell upon Theo-
dosia and her education (67).

'Burr watched the education of his daughter
down to the smallest details. At least in her men-
tal development Jonathan Edwards himself could
not have been more punctilious if he had been her
instructor. Not only her correspondence, her selec-
tion of books, and her exercises were regulated by
her father, but her manners, and even her diet. . . .
Often he would write to her, while she was in the
budding years of girlhood, sprightly epistles of Eng-
lish composition."

She was asked to decide whether "authoress'

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 189

should be used instead of 'author," to read certain
novels, then popular, and to write a description of
a ball, taking the novels as a model.

Mr. Perrine continues: "But Theodosia was urged
also to more serious tasks. Thus, at a later time,
she translated the Constitution of the United States
into French, and at her father's request (while he
was in Europe) undertook, and partly carried out,
a similar exercise on one of (Jeremy) Bentham's
works.'1

The most graphic and interesting account of
Theodosia's education from early childhood to
young womanhood, even to within a year of her
marriage, is found in her father's letters. When
she was in her eighth year he was chosen a United
States Senator, and for the six years of his term
his visits to his home were few and widely sep-
arated. Her mother's health was precarious, and
his letters were a melange of educational hints,
family matters, social and political visits and inter-
views, inquiries as to her mother's health, and such
medical advice as he could obtain from physicians
in Philadelphia. A collection has been made from
them for presentation here, but the letters have
been carefully pruned and, so far as possible, all
extraneous matter not relating to Theodosia's edu-
cation has been excised. With the possible excep-
tion of Chesterfield's Letters, there is extant to-day
no similar collection in epistolary form of the edu-
cation of a young girl from childhood to woman-
hood. As her childish mind unfolded, his letters
became more mature. Reproof and commenda-
tion were often given in the same communication.

190 THEODOSIA

Errors in spelling were pointed out, and reference
to the dictionary for the meaning of all words, or
the use of more expressive or correct ones, often
advised. The keeping of a diary .was required to
contain an account of home life, and, particularly,
a record of her progress in her manifold studies.
There were constant admonitions to care for her
health, and occasional visits and vacations were
permitted to remove what would have been a dan-
gerous mental strain to one less gifted or ambitious.

To Miss Theodosia Burr.

ALBANY, 5th August, 1792.

I received your letter which is very short and says not one word of
your mamma's health. . . .

See what a letter I have got from little Burr (a nephew) and all his
own work too. Before I left home I wrote him a letter requesting
him to tell me what I should bring him; and in answer he begs me to
bring mamma and you. A pretty present, indeed, that would be!

Your father,

A. BURR.

A mild reproof and a comparison of her letter
with one from "little Burr," his nephew.

To Miss Theodosia Burr.

WESTCHESTER, 8th October, 1792.

I rose up suddenly from the sofa, and rubbing my head — "What
book shall I buy for her?" said I to myself. "She reads so much and
so rapidly that it is not easy to find proper and amusing French books
for her; and yet I am so flattered with her progress in that language,
that I am resolved that she shall, at all events, be gratified. Indeed,
I owe it to her." So, after walking once or twice briskly across the
floor, I took my hat and sallied out, determined not to return till I had
purchased something. It was not my first attempt. I went into one
bookseller's shop after another. I found plenty of fairy tales and such
nonsense, fit for the generality of children of nine or ten years old.

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 191

\

"These," said I, "will never do. Her understanding begins to be
above such things;" but I could see nothing that I would offer with
pleasure to an intelligent, well informed girl of nine years old. I
began to be discouraged. The hour of dining was come. "But I
will search a little longer," I persevered. At last I found it. I found
the very thing I sought. It is contained in two volumes octavo,
handsomely bound, and with prints and registers. It is a work of
fancy, but replete with instruction and amusement. I must present
it with my own hand.

An indirect but dainty compliment, which, no
doubt, Theodosia fully appreciated.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 20th February, 1793.

At length, my dear Theo, I have received your letter of the 20th of
January — written, you see, a month ago. But I observe that it was
not put into the post office until day before yesterday. I suppose
Frederick or Bartow had carelessly put it in some place where it had
lain forgotten. It would indeed have been a pity that such a letter
should have been lost. There is something in the style and arrange-
ment of the words which would have done honor to a girl of sixteen.

Alexis (a colored boy) often bids me to send you some polite and
respectful message on his part, which I have heretofore omitted. He
is a faithful, good boy. Upon our return home he hopes you will teach

him to read. T rr(1

1 am, my dear Ineo,

Your affectionate papa,
A. BURR.

A touch of reproof, softened by another veiled
compliment.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 24th February, 1793.

In looking over a list made yesterday (and now before me) of letters
of consequence to be answered immediately, I find the name of T. B.
Burr. At the time I made the memorandum I did not advert to the
compliment I paid you by putting your name in a list with some of the
most eminent persons in the United States. So true is it that your
letters are really of consequence to me.

192 THEODOSIA

Somewhat satirical, but yet calculated to increase
the self-esteem of the recipient.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 16th December, 1793.

I have a thousand questions to ask, my dear Theo, but nothing to
communicate; and thus I fear it will be throughout the winter, for my
time is consumed in the dull uniformity of study and attendance in
Senate; but every hour of your day is interesting to me. I would give,
what would I not give, to see or know even your most trifling amuse-
ments ? This, however, is more than I can ask or expect. But I
do expect with impatience your journal. Ten minutes every morning
demand ; if you should choose to make it twenty, I shall be the better
pleased. You are to note the occurrences of the day as concisely as
you can; and, at your pleasure, to add any short reflections or remarks
that may arise. I give you a sample of your journal for one day :

Plan of the Journal.

Learned 230 lines, which finished Horace. Heigh-ho for Terence
and the Greek grammar to-morrow.

Practised two hours, less thirty-five minutes, which I begged off.

Hewlett (dancing master) did not come.

Began Gibbon last evening. I find he requires as much study and
attention as Horace; so I shall not rank the reading of him among
amusements.

Skated an hour; fell twenty times, and find the advantage of a hard
head and

Ma better — dined with us at table, and is still sitting up and

free from pain. ,,

Your affectionate papa,

A. BURR.

A heartfelt cry for news from home, and a very
practical way of obtaining it.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 25th December, 1793.

When you have finished a letter, read it carefully over, and correct
all the errors you can discover. In your last there were some which

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 193

could not, upon an attentive perusal, have escaped your notice, as you
shall see when we meet.

I have asked you a great many questions to which I have as yet no
answers. When you sit down to write to me, or when you set about it,
be it sitting or standing, peruse all my letters and leave nothing un-
answered.

Grammatical criticism and a complaint on ac-
count of inquiries left unanswered.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 8th January, 1794.

I beg, Miss Prissy, that you will be pleased to name a single "un-
successful effort " which you have made to please me. As to the letters
and journals which you did write, surely you have reason abundant
to believe that they gave me pleasure; and how the deuce I am to be
pleased with those you did not write, and how an omission to write
can be called an "effort," remains for your ingenuity to disclose.

You improve much in journalizing. Your last is far more sprightly
than any of the preceding. Fifty-six lines sola was, I admit, an effort
worthy of yourself, and which I hope will be often repeated. But
pray, when you have got up to 200 lines a lesson, why do you go back
again to 120 and 125? You should strive never to diminish; but I
suppose that vis inertias, which is often so troublesome to you, does
sometimes preponderate. So it is now and then even with your,

A. BURR.

Criticism tempered by commendation, followed
by a charge of laziness, from which the writer al-
lowed he was not exempt.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 14th January, 1794.

I really think, my dear Theo, that you will be very soon beyond all
verbal criticism, and that my whole attention will be presently directed
to the improvement of your style. Your letter of the 9th is remark-
ably correct in point of spelling. That word "recieved" still escapes
your attention. Try again. The words "wold" and "shold" are
mere carelessness; "necessery" instead of "necessary" belongs, I
suspect, to the same class.

194 THEODOSIA

" Ma begs you will omit the thoughts of leaving Congress." " Omit "
is improperly used here. You mean abandon, relinquish, renounce, or
abjure the thoughts, etc. Your mamma, Mr. Leshlie, or your diction-
ary (Johnson's folio) will teach you the force of this observation. The
last of these words would have been too strong for the occasion.

Again commendation and criticism commingled.
Theodosia was in her eleventh year.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 23d January, 1794.

lo, triumphe! There is not a word misspelled in either your letter
or journal, which cannot be said of a single page you ever wrote before.
The fable is quite classical, and if not very much corrected by Mr.
Leshlie, is a truly surprising performance, and written most beauti-
fully

Dr. Rush thinks that bark would not be amiss, but may be beneficial
if the stomach does not rebuke it, which must be constantly the first
object of attention. He recommends either the cold infusion or sub-
stance1 as the least likely to offend the stomach.

Be able, upon my arrival, to tell me the difference between an infu-
sion and decoction; and the history, the virtues, and the botanical or
medical name of the bark. Chambers will tell you more perhaps than
you will wish to read of it. Your little mercurial disquisition is in-
genious and prettily told.

Earnest approval, followed by a prescription for
her mother, and a suggestion to consult a medical
dictionary for information, preparatory to an exam-
ination on his return home.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 13th February, 1794.

I received your letter and enclosures yesterday in Senate. I stopped
reading the letter and took up the story in the place you directed; was
really affected by the interesting little tale, faithfully believing it to

1 The word " substance " is meaningless in this connection. Burr, prob-
ably, meant " decoction," as he asks Theodosia to learn the difference between
infusion and decoction.

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 195

have been taken from the — , and was astonished and delighted
when I recurred to the letter and found the little deception you had
played upon me. It is concisely and handsomely told, and is indeed
a performance above your years. . . .

I despair of getting genuine Tent wine in this city. There never
was a bottle of real unadulterated Tent imported here for sale. Mr.
Jefferson, who had some for his own use, has left town. Good Bur-
gundy and Muscat, mixed in equal parts, make a better Tent than can
be bought. But by Bartow's return you shall have what I can get -
sooner, if I find a conveyance.

For once, astonished and delighted, with no word
of reproof or suggestion of new duties. The wine
was for her mother.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 7th March, 1794.

Poor Tom! (a colored man, the slave of Colonel Burr) I hope
you take good care of him. If he is confined by his leg, he must
pay the greater attention to his reading and writing.

I shall run off to see you about Sunday or Monday; but the roads
are so extremely bad that I expect to be three days getting through.
I shall bring with me the cherry sweetmeats, and something for Augusta
Louise Matilda Theodosia Van Home. I believe I have not recol-
lected all her names.

Colonel Burr's servants, who were slaves, were
all taught to read and write. His theory of educa-
tion did not discriminate on account of sex or color.
Probably Theodosia, in her letters, had called her-
self by different names.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 31st March, 1794.

I am distressed at your loss of time. I do not, indeed, wholly blame
you for it, but this does not diminish my regret. . . . Negligence of
one's duties produces a self-dissatisfaction which unfits the mind for
everything, and ennui and peevishness are the never-failing conse-

196 THEODOSIA

quences. . . I shall in a few days (this week) send you a most beauti-
ful assortment of flower seeds and flowering shrubs.

If I do not receive a letter from you to-morrow, I shall be out of all
patience. Every day's journal will, I hope, say something of mamma.

Again, regret, reward, and reproof.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 7th June, 1794.

I have received my dear Theo's two little, very little, French letters.
The last left you tormented with headache and toothache, too much
for one poor little girl to suffer at one time, I am sure; you had doubt-
less taken some sudden cold. You must fight them as well as you
can till I come, and then I will engage to keep them at bay.

Sympathy, an encouragement to fortitude, and
the promise of a father's loving care. Theodosia
was now motherless.

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 4th August, 1794.

We arrived here yesterday after a hot, tedious passage of seven
days. We were delayed as well by accidents as by calm and contrary
winds. The first evening, being under full sail, v?e ran ashore at Tap-
pan, and lay there aground, in a very uncomfortable situation, twenty-
four hours. With great labor and fatigue we got off the following
night, and had scarce got under sail before we missed our longboat.
We lost the whole day in hunting for it and so lay till the morning of
Wednesday. Having then made sail again, with a pretty strong head
wind, at the very first tack the Dutch horse fell overboard. The poor
devil was at the time tied about the neck with a rope, so that he seemed
to have only the alternatives of hanging or drowning (for the river
is here about four miles wide and the water was very rough) ; fortunately
for him, the rope broke, and he went souse into the water. His weight
sunk him so deep that we were at least fifty yards from him when he
came up. He snorted off the water, and turning around once or twice,
as if to see where he was, then recollecting the way to New York, he
immediately swam off down the river with all force. We fitted out
our longboat in pursuit of him, and at length drove him on shore on

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 197

the Westchester side, where I hired a man to take him to Frederick's.
All this delayed us nearly a whole tide more. The residue of the voyage
was without accident, except such as you may picture to yourself in a
small cabin, with seven men, seven women, and two crying children -
two of the women being the most splenetic, ill-humored animals you
can imagine. ... I am quite gratified that you have secured Mrs.
Penn's good opinion, and content with your reasons for not saying the
civil things you had intended. In case you should dine in
company with her, I will apprize you of one circumstance, by a trifling
attention to which you may elevate yourself in her esteem. She is a
great advocate for a very plain, rather abstemious, diet in children, as
you may see by her conduct with Miss Elizabeth. Be careful, therefore,
to eat of but one dish; that a plain roast or boiled; little or no gravy
or butter, and very sparingly of dessert or fruit: not more than half a
glass of wine; and if more of anything to eat or drink is offered, decline
it. If they ask a reason - - "Papa thinks it is not good for me," is the
best that can be given.

It was with great pain and reluctance that I made this journey
without you. But your manners are not yet quite sufficiently formed
to enable you to do justice to your own character (Theodosia had now
entered her twelfth year), and the expectations which are formed of
you, or to my wishes. Improve, therefore, to the utmost, the present
opportunity; inquire of every point of behavior about which you are
embarrassed; imitate as much as you can the manners of Madame
De S., and observe also everything which Mrs. Penn says and does.

You should direct your own breakfast. Send Caesar every morning
for a pint of milk for you; and, to save trouble to Madame De S., let
her know that you eat at breakfast only bread and butter.

A good story. The second paragraph contains
what Parton calls "a dangerous Chesterfieldian
taint.'1 An abstemious diet provided.

To his daughter Theodosia.

ALBANY, 14th August, 1794.

Your invitation to the Z's was, I confess, a very embarrassing
dilemma, and one from which it was not easy to extricate yourself.
For the future, take it for your rule to visit only the families which
you have known me to visit; and if Madame De S. should propose to

198 THEODOSIA

you to visit any other, you may tell her what are my instructions on
the subject. To the young ladies, you may pretend business or en-
gagements. Avoid, however, giving any offence to your companions.
It is the manner of a refusal, much more than the refusal, which gives
offence. This direction about your visits applies only to the citizens
or English families. You may, indeed it is my wish that you should,
visit with Madame De S. all her French acquaintance. . . .

Do you continue to preserve Madame De S's good opinion of your
talents for the harp ? And do you find that you converse with more
facility in the French? These are interesting questions, and your
answer to this will, I hope, answer fully all the questions it contains.

A lesson in social etiquette.

To his daughter Theodosia.

ALBANY, 16th August, 1794.

Let me know whether Mrs. Penn has left town, how often you have
been with her, and what passed. I need not repeat my anxiety to
know how you and Madame De S. agree, and what progress you make
in music, dancing, and speaking French. She promised to give you,
now and then, a lesson on the forte-piano. Is she as good as her word ?

Having failed in your promise to write by every post, you cannot
expect me to return within the month, one promise being founded on
the other.

Education still to the fore, and a touch of moral
philosophy.

To his daughter Theodosia.

TROY, 21st August, 1794.

I hope to be on my return on Monday, when you must begin to
pray for northerly winds; or, if you have learned to, say mass, that the
French Roman Catholics rely on to procure them all earthly and
spiritual blessings. By the by, if you have not been to the Roman
chapel, I insist that you go next Sunday, if you are not engaged in
some other party.

If Burr was irreligious, as is claimed, he seems
to acknowledge the efficacy of prayer, and had
no objection to his daughter's attendance at church-

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 199

in fact, commended it. How the mists of prejudice
and falsehood roll away before the sunlight of truth !

To his daughter Theodosia.

NEW YORK, 5th January, 1795.

You see me safe arrived in New York. I have passed but one hour
at Richmond Hill. It seems solitary and undesirable without you.
They are all well and much, very much disappointed that you did not
come with me. . . .

Your picture is really like you; still, it does not quite please me.
It has a pensive, sentimental air, that of a love-sick maid. Stuart has
probably meant to anticipate what you may be at sixteen; but even in
that I think he has missed it.

Bartow has grown immensely fat.

She was not at home and, in her absence, even
the brush of a great artist could not satisfy a father's
longing for his child. In his disappointment he
criticised the artist because he had not made her
more as his fancy painted her.

To his daughter Theodosia.

BRISTOL, 14th September, 1795.

You must pay off Meance and Hewlet for their attendance on you
and Nathalie. (Nathalie De L'Age was the daughter of a French lady
who was once a member of the family of the Princess Lamballe.
Nathalie was adopted and educated by Colonel Burr as his child.
She married the son of General Sumter, of South Carolina.) They
must be paid regularly at the end of each month.

Tell Mr. Martell that I request that all the time- he can spare you
be devoted to Latin; that I have provided you with a teacher of French,
that no part of his attention might be taken off.

Burr has often been accused of being very care-
less about money matters and always in debt. Dur-
ing his married life, however, his correspondence
shows him to have been very careful about paying
his household bills, at least, promptly.

200 THEODOSIA

To his daughter Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 17th September, 1795.

By this post I received a letter from Colonel Ward, requesting leave
to remove his family into my house, Richmond Hill. He lives, you
may recollect, in the part of the town which is said to be sickly. I
could not, therefore, refuse. He will call on you to go out with him.
You had better, immediately upon receipt of this, go out yourself and
apprize Anthony and Peggy. ... I beg that when you sit down to
write a letter you will begin by putting a date at the top; this will then
presently become a habit, and will never be omitted.

I am sorry, very sorry, that you are obliged to submit to some re-
proof. Indeed, I fear that your want of attention and politeness, and
your awkward postures require it. ... I have often seen Madame
at table, and other situations, pay you the utmost attention; offer you
twenty civilities, while you appeared scarcely sensible that she was
speaking to you; or, at the most, replied with a cold remercie, without
even a look of satisfaction or complacency. A moment's reflection
will convince you that this conduct will be naturally construed into
arrogance; as if you thought that all attention was due to you, and as
if you felt above showing the least to anybody. I know that you
abhore such sentiments and that you are incapable of being actuated
by them. Yet you expose yourself to the censure without intending
or knowing it. I believe you will in future avoid it. Observe how
Nathalie replies to the smallest civility which is offered to her. . . .

You will, I am sure, my dear Theodosia, pardon two such grave
pages from one who loves you, and whose happiness depends very
much on yours.

Theodosia was now in her 'teens' and afflicted
with the natural gaucherie of that period of life.
Motherless, away from her father and early compan-
ions, in the company of comparative strangers, it is no
wonder that she was ill at ease and often awkward.

To his daughter Theodosia.

CITY OF WASHINGTON, 23d September, 1795.

Your letter of the 17th and one without date (I suppose the 18th)
came in this evening. They contain more wit and sprightliness than

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 201

you ever wrote in the same compass, and have amused me exceedingly.
But why do you diminish their value by carelessness ? There is an
omission of one or more words in every sentence. At least I entreat
you to read over your letters before you seal them. Some clauses are
absolutely unintelligible, though in several I can guess what word
you intended.

Again the mixture of commendation and criticism.
A witty young girl, not fully educated, is like a trim-
built yacht in the hands of an incompetent sailing
master. But fortunate Theodosia had for her pilot
a loving father to guide her by and over the rocks and
shoals of life.

To his daughter Theodosia.
CITY OF WASHINGTON, 26th September, 1795.

Your letter of the 21st, written, I suppose, at Dr. Brown's, has
just come in, and relieves me from a weight of anxiety about your
health. . . .

Of attention and tenderness you will receive not only enough, but
a great deal too much; and an indulgence to every inattention, awkward
habit, and expression, which may lead you to imagine them to be so
many ornaments. As to your language, I expect to find it perfectly
infantine.

Visit your neighbors B. B. often as you please, taking very great
care not to surfeit the family with your charming company, which may
happen much sooner than you would be inclined to believe.

The most sarcastic letter Burr ever wrote to his
daughter. Its severity may have been deserved,
but one cannot help feeling pity for Theodosia.
No doubt her friends petted her, the homeless little
girl was delighted, and expressed her pleasure
with too much exuberance to her stoical father.

To his daughter Theodosia.

NEW YORK, 8th February, 1796.

What will you think of the taste of New York when I shall tell
you that Miss Broadhurst is not very generally admired here ? Such

202 THEODOSIA

is the fact. I have contributed my feeble efforts to correct this opin-
ion.

Mat's child shall not be christened until you shall be pleased to
indicate the time, place, manner, and name. I have promised Tom
that he shall take me to Philadelphia if there be sleighing. The poor
fellow is almost crazy about it. He is importuning all the gods for
snow, but as yet they don't appear to listen to him.

Your being in the ballette charms me. If you are to practice on
Wednesday evening, do not stay away for the expectation of receiving
me. If you should be at the ballette, I shall go forthwith to see you.

A quick drop from a bit of society gossip to the
christening of a child and the happiness of a slave.
Theodosia must have been taking satisfactory lessons
in dancing to be qualified to appear in the ballet.

To Theodosia.

PHILADELPHIA, 23d January, 1797.

You must not "puzzle all day," my dear little girl, at one hard
lesson. After puzzling faithfully for one hour, apply to your arith-
metic, and do enough to convince the doctor that you have not been
idle. Neither must you be discouraged by one unlucky day. The
doctor is a very reasonable man and makes all due allowance for the
levities as well as for the stupidity of children. I think you will not
often challenge his indulgence on either score.

And do you regret that you are not also a woman ? That you are
not numbered in that galaxy of beauty which adorns an assembly
room, coquetting for admiration and attracting flattery ? No. I answer
with confidence. You feel that you are maturing for solid friend-
ship. The friends you gain you will never lose; and no one, I think,
will dare to insult your understanding by such compliments as are
most graciously received by too many of your sex. . . .

Never use a word which does not fully express your thoughts, or
which, for any other reason, does not please you. Hunt your diction-
ary till you find one. Arrange a whole sentence in your mind before
you write a word of it. ... I should be mortified — I should be almost
offended — if I should find that you had passed over any word in my
letters without becoming perfectly acquainted with its meaning, use,
and etymology.

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 203

Nearly fourteen years of age and still under the
educational harrow. Much more of Woll stone-
craft than of Chesterfield in the second paragraph.
In fact, she is warned against the compliments
of the followers of Chesterfieldian teachings.

To Theodosia.

ALBANY, 4th January, 1799.

Your despondency distresses me extremely. It is indeed unfortu-
nate, my dear Theodosia, that we are constrained to be separated. I
had never so much need of your society and friendship, nor you, per-
haps, of mine. It is a misfortune which I sincerely regret every hour
of the day. It is one, however, which you must aid me to support, by
testifying that you can support your share of it with firmness and
activity. An effort made with decision will convince you that you are
able to accomplish all I wish and all you desire. Determination and
perseverance in every laudable undertaking is the great point of differ-
ence between the silly and the wise. It is essentially a part of your
character, and requires but an effort to bring it into action. The
happiness of my life depends upon your exertions; for what else, for
whom else do I live ? ... It is for my sake that you now labor. I
shall acknowledge your advancement with gratitude and with the most
lively pleasure. Let me entreat you not to be discouraged. . . .

There is nothing more certain than that you may form what counte-
nance you please. An open, serene, intelligent countenance, a little
brightened by cheerfulness, not wrought into smiles or simpers, will
presently become familiar and grow into habit. A year will with cer-
tainty accomplish it. Your physiognomy has naturally much of
benevolence, and it will cost you much labor, which you may well
spare, to eradicate it. Avoid, forever avoid, a smile or sneer of con-
tempt; never even mimic them. A frown of sullenness or discontent
is but one degree less hateful. You seem to require these things of
me, or I should have thought them unnecessary. . . .

I am perpetually stopped in the streets by little and big girls. Where
is Miss Burr ? Won't she come up this winter ? Oh, why didn't you
bring her ? and so forth.

Nearly "sweet sixteen." An energetic exhortation

204 THEODOSIA

to stoicism, fortitude, and enforced cheerfulness.
With a home, and father and mother with her, how
much happier Theodosia's childhood would have
been.

To Theodosia.

ALBANY, llth February, 1799.

You now see that a letter can come from New York in three days ;
a truth which has been frequently verified by the receipt of my letters,
but never before by the despatch of your own.

You charge me with not noticing two of your letters, and that I
have not given you any directions about heedlessness. With sub-
mission, Miss, you are mistaken. It is true that I have not repeated
the word, but I have intimated several things intended to this point.
You expect, I presume, that I should treat the subject scientifically,
as Duport does his art, and begin by explanation of terms, and then
proceed to divide and subdivide the matter, as a priest does a sermon.
Such a dose would, I am sure, have sickened you. I have therefore
thought it best to give you very little at a time, and watch, as physicians
do with potent medicines, the effect produced. When we meet, which
I verily believe will be in five or six days after the receipt of this, you
shall have as much as I shall find your stomach will bear. . . .

I go to bed between 12 and 1 and rise between 7 and 8. For some
reasons to me unknown, I cannot drink a single glass of wine with-
out serious injury; still less can I bear ardent spirits. Of course I
am pretty much in the bread and water line. This is the more pro-
voking as I dine out almost every day, and the dinners are really
excellent and well dressed, not exceeded in New York. . . . Please
to resolve me whether "author" is not of both genders, for I hate the
appendix of "ess."

Three days from New York to Albany ! — rapid
transit for those days. Miss Theodosia had evi-
dently taken her father to task for delinquency in
his correspondence, and he retorts. He confesses
his love for good dinners, but is condemned to ab-
stinence in both food and drink.

HER CHILDHOOD AND EDUCATION 205

To Theodosia.

ALBANY, 26th January, 1800.

Indeed, my dear Theodosia, I have many, many moments of solici-
tude about you. Remember that occupation will infallibly expel the
fiend ennui, and that solicitude is the bugbear of fools. God bless
and aid thee.

He teaches the ' ' Gospel of Work ' ' and that solici-
itude leads to useless self-introspection.

To Theodosia.

ALBANY, 30th January, 1800.

You reflect, and that is a security for your conduct. Our most
humiliating errors proceed usually from inattention, and from that
mental dissipation which we call heedlessness. You estimate your
situation with great truth. Many are surprised that I could repose
in you so great a trust as that of yourself; but I knew that you were
equal to it, and I am not deceived. ... At your age to prefer duty
to pleasure when they are in collision, is a degree of firmness rarely
exhibited, and therefore, the more calculated to inspire respect. I
perceive that I am not very explicit, but you will reflect and discern
my meaning. Montesquieu said he wrote to make people think, and

not to make them read — and why may not —

A. BURR.

A young woman now nearly seventeen! Her
education well advanced, parental confidence in
her ability to take care of herself is expressed. Now
she is no longer to 'read' but to " think. " She
was married to Colonel Alston in the following
year.

It has been seen that in Theodosia's case child-
hood and education were synonymous. It is so
to-day, in many instances, but rarely to so pronounced
an extent. The outlines of her mental and moral
education were cast in a Spartan mould. She was
taught the self-reliance and fortitude of a man,

206 THEODOSIA

and it made her the most marked instance of pater-
nal devotion in our country's history. She was
the first woman in America to have what may be
called a college education. Her personal charm,
her amiability, her moral heroism, and her educa-
tional acquirements entitle her to the designation
w^hich we have given her — THE FIRST GENTLE-
WOMAN OF HER TIME.

CHAPTER X

RICHMOND HILL

[TVEW houses in America have sheltered so many
J7 prominent men and women, or experienced
more vicissitudes of fortune and use, than the one-
time home of Aaron Burr known as Richmond
Hill. Its actual location has been fixed officially

68): "Zandt Berg, or Sand Hill, was an elevated
range of hills traversing a part of the City of New
York through the eighth and fifteenth wards. There
were several prominent points on the Zandt Berg.
The residence of Abraham Mortier, Commissary
in the British Army, was erected about the year
1760 on one extremity of this range. This build-
ing was subsequently called the Richmond Hill
House. The position of this house was near the
present corner of Varick and Charlton streets.'1
The Republic newspaper (place of publication

aknown) gives a coarse wood-cut of what it terms
"a shabby ruin." It says: "The old frame house
standing on the southwest corner of Hudson ( ?)
and Charlton Streets, New York City, is pointed
out by old residents as being all that is left of what
at one time was the finest residence on Manhattan
Island. It is what remains of the celebrated Rich-
mond Hill mansion." The paper states that it came
into the possession of Colonel Burr at the time of his

207

208 THEODOSIA

marriage to Mrs. Prevost in 1782, but this statement
is manifestly erroneous, as Colonel Burr lived first in
Albany. When he came to New York City, after its
evacuation by the British in November, 1783, he took
a house in Maiden Lane. Vice-president John
Adams lived at Richmond Hill in 1789.

A historian of old New York (69) says: "The
successor to Vice-president Adams in the tenancy
of this estate, and the tenant with whom its name
is always most closely associated, was Aaron Burr,
to whom was executed a sixty-nine years' lease of
the property on May 1, 1797; and who here, before
and during his term as Vice-president, lived in the
handsome fashion becoming to so accomplished a
man of the world.'1

To quote further from the Republic: "It was
here that Aaron Burr passed the most happy years
of his life.': This statement was undoubtedly
founded upon the belief that Colonel Burr took
possession in 1782. As Mrs. Burr died in 1794,
and Colonel Burr, as we have seen, was separated
from his daughter by official and legal duties, his
residence there could hardly have been the happiest
period of his life.

In a subsequent part of the Republic's article
it is stated: 'At that time the mansion, a large
wooden edifice, with a portico of Ionic columns,
stood at what is now Varick and Charlton streets;
the estate comprising about 160 acres, extended
to the water' (the Hudson River).

Mr. Janvier further complicates the point of
exact location of the house by substituting "Van
Dam" for "Charlton" Street.

•Richmond' Hill," occupied at various times by Gen.

Washington, Vice President John Adams,

and Col. Aaron Burr.

LJeuc •

\\

HER LIFE AT RICHMOND HILL 209

Richmond Hill — when any old gentleman thus came skating
around it in winters more than seventy years gone by - - really it was
a hill; the southwestern out jut of the low range called the Zandtberg
(that is to say sandhills) which swung away in a long curve from near
the present Clinton Place and Broadway to about where Varick and
Van Dam streets now cross. The Minetta water expanded into a large
pond at the base of the hill, and - - to quote the elegant language of
an earlier day — "from the crest of this small eminence was an enticing
prospect; on the south, the woods and dells and winding road from
the lands of Lispenard, through the valley where was Borrowson's
tavern; and on the north and west the plains of Greenwich Village
made up a rich prospect to gaze on."

He gives a picture of Vice-president Adams, Baron
Steuben, and Mr. Jefferson.

Later Mr. Vice-president John Adams occupied Richmond Hill,
keeping up the establishment on a scale not quite so liberal as that of
the Commissionary, perhaps, but with a fitting state and dignity. A
glimpse of the interior of this household is given by Gulian C. Ver-
planck, writing in the Talisman for 1829, in his description of a vice-
presidential dinner-party : "There, in the centre of the table," writes
Mr. Verplanck, "sat Vice-president Adams in full dress, with his
bag and solitaire, his hair frizzled out each side of his face as you see
it in Stuart's older pictures of him. On his right sat Baron Steuben,
our royalist republican disciplinarian general. On his left was Mr.
Jefferson, who had just returned from France, conspicuous in his red
waist-coat and breeches, the fashion of Versailles."

Mr. William L. Stone, of Mount Vernon, New
York, has supplied from one of his scrap-books
the following interesting account of Richmond Hill
from 1760 to 1841, covering the period of its incep-
tion, growth, and decline. Certain inconsistencies
with previous statements, or additions, are indi-
cated by parenthetical notes:

In the year 1760, the present Eighth Ward of this city was a rural
region of exceeding beauty, in its rich adornment of field and forest,

210 THEODOSIA

of limpid ponds and rippling streamlets. In the middle of its area
rose a lofty hill, sloping gently up from the east, but descending steeply
to the banks of the Hudson. South of the eminence spread the broad
savannahs and salt marshes known as Lispenard's Meadows; and
through them ran the devious stream which served as an outlet from
the "Fresh Water" - a stream which was afterwards made a straight
water-course along Canal Street. Round the northerly skirts of the
hill, in many a wayward reach and murmuring eddy, curved the little
brook then known as "Bestaver's Killetje." That was its name long
before; and it is of frequent mention in the Dongan Charter of 1686,
as a point in the boundary of the Out-ward. It rose just north of the
present Washington Square, and meandering along where Minetta
and Downing Streets now run, it emptied into the Hudson about the
foot of Hammersly Street. In later times this rivulet was called
Minetta Water.

The lofty, forest-crowned height between the brook and the Meadows
was part of "the King's Farm," held by Trinity Church; and either
by purchase or by lease, 1760, it had come into the possession of Abra-
ham Mortier, then (Commissionary) Paymaster-general of the Royal
forces in the Colony. It was called Richmond Hill, and in that year,
on its highest point, he built him a noble mansion and surrounded it
with broad lawns and pleasant walks and gardens.

Of the Paymaster's history during his residence there we have only
two slight outlines, in which he and his lady figure. It wTas the fashion
then for society to amuse itself by applying the characters or the dramas,
represented at the theatre, to the peculiarities of acquaintance. So
when "Laugh and Grow Fat " was put on the New York stage, it was
considered well-fitted for the' Paymaster. "He was a cheerful old
gentleman, but the leanest of all human kind. He was almost
diaphanous."

Then, about the same time, Horatio Gates was in London, an
officer of the Royal Army, and seeking profitable promotion there.
He was so mercenary that Sir Jeffrey Amherst here would have little
to do with him. His friends in New York wrote to him, pointing out
places for his attention, and particularly that of Paymaster-general.
Says one to him, about 1765: "Abraham Mortier goes to England next
spring with his fat lady. Could you not contrive to get his place?
He has made a fortune."

In the spring of 1776 Washington arrived in New York and made

HER LIFE AT RICHMOND HILL 211

his headquarters at Richmond Hill. Colonel Aaron Burr arrived
from Canada on the 20th of May, and waited on the commander-in-
chief there. Washington remained there until after the battle of
Brooklyn, and until the retreat of the American Army to Harlem
Heights; when his headquarters were removed to the Roger Morris
House - - the subsequent Jumel Mansion.

It was while Washington had his quarters at Richmond Hill that
the famous, or infamous, conspiracy was planned by the Tories and
British officials in the city, which nearly succeeded in making him a
victim. The design was to poison the General, as well as other Ameri-
can officers, and also to blow up the magazine. One of Washington's
body-guard, named Thomas Hickey, had been seduced. He was to
be aided by other people in the city, and the plot was fustrated only,
it is said, by the faithfulness of the housekeeper, a daughter of the well-
known Sam Francis, who discovered and exposed the danger. Gov-
ernor Tryon and the Mayor, David Matthews, were implicated.
Trvon was sheltered on the Duchess of Gordon, a British vessel in

V '

the harbor; but the Mayor was arrested and sent to prison at Litch-
field, in Connecticut, charged with "treasonable practices against the
States of America." Hickey was tried and found guilty of "mutiny,
sedition, and the worst of practices," and on the 28th of June was
hung near the present corner of Grand and Chrystie Streets.

When the British held possession of the city during the Revolution,
the Richmond Hill mansion was occupied by various general officers
of their army, the last of whom was Sir Guy Carleton, the last com-
mander.

In 1789 the property was in possession of a Mrs. Jephson, and on
the assembling of the first Congress, the Vice-president, John Adams,
took up his residence in the mansion. The following descriptive
letter was written by his wife (Abigail Adams) :

RICHMOND HILL, (N. Y.) 27th Sept., 1789.
To Mrs. Shaw:

I write to you, my dear sister, not from the disputed banks of the
Potomac, the Susquehanna, or the Delaware, but from the peaceful
borders of the Hudson - - a situation where the hand of nature has so
lavishly displayed her beauties that she has left scarcely anything for
her handmaid, art, to perform.

The house in which we reside is situated upon a hill, the avenue

THEODOSIA .

to which is interspersed with forest trees, under which a shrubbery
rather too luxuriant and wild has taken shelter, owing to its having
been deprived by death, some years since, of its original proprietor,
who kept it in perfect order. In front of the house the noble Hudson
rolls his majestic waves, bearing upon his bosom innumerable small
vessels, which are constantly forwarding the rich products of the
neighboring soil to the busy hand of a more extensive commerce.
Beyond the Hudson rises to our view the fertile country of the Jerseys,
covered with a golden harvest, and pouring forth plenty like the cornu-
copia of Ceres. On the right hand, an extensive plain presents us
with a view of fields covered with verdure and pastures full of cattle.
On the left, the city opens upon us, intercepted only by clumps of trees
and some rising ground, which serve to heighten the beauty of the
scene, by appearing to conceal a part. In the background is a large
flower-garden, enclosed with a hedge, and some very handsome trees.
On one side of it is a grove of pines and oaks, fit for contemplation.

"In this path

How long so o'er the wanderer roves, each step
Shall wake fresh beauties; each last point present
A different picture, new, and yet the same."

If my days of fancy and romance were not past, I could here find
an ample field for indulgence; yet amidst these delightful scenes of
nature my heart pants for the society of my dear relatives and friends.
I wish most sincerely to return and pass the recess of Congress at my
habitation in Braintree, but the season of the year to which Congress
had adjourned renders the attempt impracticable. Although I am
not the only person who questions their making a Congress again until
April, yet the punctuality of Mr. Adams to all public business would
oblige him strictly to adhere to the day of adjournment, however incon-
venient it might prove to him. He has never been absent from his
daily duty in Senate a single hour from their first meeting, and the
last month's business has pressed so hard that his health appears to
require a recess.

Shall I ask my sister why she has not written me a line since I came
to this place ? With regard to myself, I own I have been cautious of
writing. I know that I stand in a delicate situation. I am fearful of
touching upon political subjects; yet perhaps there is no person who
feels more interested in them. And upon this occasion I may con-

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HER LIFE AT RICHMOND HILL 213

gratulate my country upon the late judicial appointments, in which an
assemblage of the greatest talents and abilities are united which any
country can boast - - gentlemen in whom the public have great confi-
dence, and who will prove durable pillars in support of our government.
Mr. Jefferson is nominated for Secretary of State in the room of
Mr. Jay, who is made Chief Justice. Thus have we the fairest prospect
of sitting down under our own vine in peace, provided the restless
spirit of certain characters who foam and fret is permitted only its
hour upon the stage, and then no more heard of, nor permitted to sow
the seeds of discord among the real defenders of the faith.

Your affectionate sister,

A. A.

In the autumn of 1783 Colonel Aaron Burr came to New York to
engage in the practice of law. After a few years (not until 1797),
he became the owner or lessee of Richmond Hill, and in Norton's
Literary Messenger of twenty years ago (date unknown, probably
1817), we find the following statement: "In the famous lawsuit which
has been going on for so long a time between Trinity Church and the
heirs of Anneke Jans, who claim this property, Aaron Burr was re-
tained as counsel for the heirs, with hopes of success. But they were
greatly surprised at discovering that he had deserted their side of the
suit and gone over to Trinity Church, and acquired from that corpora-
tion a lease of the whole Richmond Hill property.

Burr here maintained a liberal establishment, and with his wife
and two sons, and his own little daughter Theodosia, a happy family
circle were gathered within the old halls. (This statment is incorrect,
for Burr did not live at Richmond Hill until 1797, when Theodosia
was 14.) After the death of his wife, in 1794, his daughter, then eleven
years old, and an adopted daughter, still kept up the hospitalities of
his home. This adopted daughter was Nathalie De L'Age, who after-
wards married a son of General Sumter of South Carolina.

In 1801 Theodosia was married to Governor Alston of South
Carolina, and after Burr's fatal encounter with Hamilton in 1804
his rural home passed from his possession. John Jacob Astor pur-
chased, it is said, all of the property but the mansion, and a few acres
around it, for one hundred and forty thousand dollars, and in a short
time afterward the mansion and the remainder were sold for twenty-
five thousand.

214 THEODOSIA

Then came to these once cherished halls the years of neglect, c
solitude and decay. Afterwards came the spread of population to-
ward the site, and the lofty hill was cut down, and the mansion, humbled
from its high estate, at length found itself lowered a hundred feet down,
until there it stood, a mere every-day corner house, on the southwest
corner of Charlton and Varick Streets.

In 1819 it was occupied as a circus, and it is recorded that Charlep
M'Donald, the popular clown, and John May were then member?
of the company. After this it became a public house; then a theatr<
for a time, and at length a ball-room and garden, known as the Tivoli
Gardens.

For many years before and after 1833 the Richmond Hill Theatr
was an attractive place of resort for the west-side population. Amon
those actors who appeared on its stage were John B. Addis, Miss P
Anson, Charles Boniface, Seth Geer, William Henry, Hudson Kirbj,
David S. Palmer, and others. Mr. and Mrs. John Barnes during the'
management introduced Italian opera, and we think that at that tin
(1832) the tenor Montressor, with Pedrotti and Rapetti, appeare-
before a New York audience.

In 1832 Mary Gannon made her first appearance, at three years <
age, as the Daughter of the Regiment. The first Mrs. Hamblin (Mis.
E. Blanchard) was there in 1836, and Mr. William H. Hamblin ii
1837; VanAmburgh in 1833, and Mrs. Sophia Judah made her debt
there. Jean Davenport, afterwards Mrs. F. W. Lander, at the a^
of eight, made a successful appearance in "Little Pickle."

In 1841 John Charles Freer was manager, but the tide of succee
flowed in other directions, and at length Richmond Hill and its mansion
were lost amid the avalandhe of modern brick and mortar.

Parton's description is brief:

"It was a delightful abode, say the old chron-
iclers; the grounds extending down to the river,
and the neighborhood adorned with groves, gardens,
ponds, and villas. The site of the old mansion
is now the corner of Charlton and Varick Streets.
Twenty years ago (1837) a part of the house was
still standing and served as a low drinking shop.
The vicinity so enchanting in Burr's day presents

HER LIFE AT RICHMOND HILL

Ht this time a dreary scene of shabby ungen-
t'ility.''

Mrs. Peacock thus refers to the library at Rich-
•mond Hill:

"The library, which bespoke the critical taste
of the scholar, and which he had begun to collect
"as a boy, was a feature of the house, recalled, in
.after years, by men who had been his guests, as
vividly as the brilliant dinner-parties given beneath
*he same roof by the distinguished Adams and his
wife. He (Burr) had his London bookseller,
trough whom he made constant additions to his col-
lection, for Burr was ever a lover of books, and he
.Recorded in his Journal in his days of exile and want
with what pangs he had been obliged to part with
some odd volumes he had with him upon discover-
ng that he was again under the necessity of dining. v

Another writer recalls the downward career of
She old mansion (70) :

,0 "The 'Richmond Hill,' another short-lived, feeble
attempt to establish a place of amusement remote
*rom the travelled highways, was on Charlton
Street, near Varick, then one of the most quiet
sections of the city; in fact, beyond the actual limit.
Its high-sounding name was derived from the site
4t occupied, and a portion of the altered building
had formerly been the country residence of Aaron
Burr, w^hen that schemer was at the full of his polit-
ical career, and who in his pride had so christened
the slight elevation upon which it rested. From
the start it (the theatre) proved a wretched under-
taking; even the few dead-head 'claqueurs' of the
time objected to travel so far from their accustomed

216 THEODOSIA

rounds, and as the associations were not worthy
of notice by the respectable press. "

Perhaps the writer's evident dislike for Colonel
Burr led him to vent his feelings upon the theatre
named after the Vice-president's residence, but
his account of the theatre's failure is entirely at
variance with one previously given, supplied by Mr.
Stone, whose father, Colonel William Leete Stone,
was a Revolutionary officer and a writer of biograph-
ical and historical works.

Another historian of New York City adds a few
points of interest to well-known facts (71) :

:The house at Richmond Hill, Greenwich Vil-
lage, in w^hich Aaron Burr lived, was a notable
resort for the learned and elegant people of New
York. It was the same house wThich General
Washington occupied for headquarters in 1776, and
in which his life-guardsman, Hickey, tried to poison
him. Lord Dorchester and Sir Guy Carleton lived in
it during the British occupation, and it was the home
of Vice-president Adams. Burr occupied it for a
country residence (in 1797) before he was Vice-presi-
dent. There he entertained Count Volney, Jerome
Bonaparte, Talleyrand-Perigord, Louis Philippe,
Joseph Brandt the Mohawk Chief, and many other
notable foreigners, as well as the leading members of
New York's early aristocracy. His daughter Theo-
dosia gave the charm of her unique and lovely person-
ality to the open hospitality of the house. It was
there that Burr laid his far-reaching political plans.
Jefferson, Madison, and Hamilton all visited and
dined there. Mayor Edward Livingston, beloved of
the people, was an especially favored guest.'3

HER LIFE AT RICHMOND HILL 217

Par ton says that the dinner to Volney, Talley-
rand, and other notables was given in Philadelphia
and not in New York.

A few words about Colonel Burr's guests may
be found interesting. Louis Philippe, who suc-
ceeded Louis XVIII as King of France, was born
in 1773. He came to America, accompanied by
two younger brothers, in 1796. They toured the
States for four years, returning to Europe in 1800.
He became king in 1816, but was dethroned dur-
ing the revolution in 1848. He fled to England,
where he died in 1850.

Count Volney was a traveler and a novelist.
He was born in Anjou, France, in 1757, and died
in Paris in 1820. He opposed the Reign of Terror
and was imprisoned. When liberated he came to
the United States and published a book about its
climate in 1803. He returned to France and be-
came a senator. His principal literary work was
entitled "The Ruins; or, The Revolutions of Em-
pires." In it he pictured himself at Palmyra and
all the governments of the world passed in review
before him.

The career of Jerome Bonaparte is better known.
Born in 1784, he came to the United States in his
nineteenth year. He met, wooed, and married
Miss Elizabeth Patterson, of Baltimore, the ances-
tress of our American Bonapartes. Napoleon op-
posed the match, declared it null and void, and
Jerome, in order to become a short-lived king,
married a princess.

Mrs. Peacock writes that when Jerome first met
Miss Patterson "she was radiantly beautiful in a

218 THEODOSIA

gown of buff silk with a lace fichu and a Leghorn
hat with tulle trimmings and black plumes." Mad-
ame Bonaparte sailed for Lisbon with her husband,
but she was not allowed to land. The Emperor
Napoleon's ambassador asked her what he could
do for her. She replied: Tell your master that
Madame Bonaparte is ambitious and demands
her rights as a member of the Imperial family."
The newly married couple parted there, never to
meet again as man and wife. Jerome, after his
marriage with the daughter of the King of Wiir-
temberg, invited Elizabeth to come to Westphalia,
of which he had been made king. He said he would
give her a home, the title of Princess, and a pension
of two hundred thousand francs a year. She re-
plied that Westphalia was not large enough for
two queens, and as she had already accepted Napo-
leon's annuity of sixty thousand francs, she pre-
ferred 'being sheltered under the wing of an eagle,
to being suspended from the bill of a goose." Na-
poleon was pleased with this witticism and asked
her, through the French Ambassador, what she
would like. She replied that she wished to be a
duchess. Napoleon promised her the title, but
failed to keep his word.

Charles Maurice de Talleyrand-Perigord was born
in 1754 and died in 1838. He wished to join the
army, but family influence forced him to become a
bishop, and a most discreditable one he was. He
affiliated at first with the Court party, then he be-
came a Republican; next he became a Bonapartist
and a devoted adherent of Napoleon; later he again
joined the Court party and received the abdica-

HER LIFE AT RICHMOND HILL 219

tion of the great conqueror whose former friend
lie had been.

One of his biographers thus paints his character
(72) : ' He possesses the financial abilities of a Sully,
the political capacity and duplicity of a Richelieu,
the cunning and capacity of a Mazarin, the com-
mercial knowledge of a Colbert, the insensibility
and cruelty of a Louvois, the profligacy and deprav-
ity of Dubois, the method and perspicuity of a
Fleury, the penetration of Choiseul, the suppleness
of Maurepas, and the activity of Vergennes." He
was evidently a great man, for his biographer says:
"Nature had bestowed on Talleyrand a first-rate
genius. " Yet 'the immorality of his private life
accompanied him in his public station.'1 He was
a seducer and a libertine. Club-footed, like Lord
Byron, from his birth, he banished the sense of
his deformity 'by insinuating manners, obliging
attentions, and an agreeable conversation.' He
personally caused the death of many persons, includ-
ing women, and betrayed his friends, but he has
never been called "a murderer," 'an assassin,"
or "a traitor." The French people must be more
tolerant, more forgiving, than our own. They
are seemingly in accord with Mrs. Gertrude Ather-
ton, who thinks, or rather argues, that great abil-
ities are accompanied by great faults, and that,
like fractions in arithmetic, one cancels the other,
at least in part, leaving the preponderance to the
credit of the genius. This argument will be of
service in the future.

Joseph Brandt, a Mohawk chief, was born about
1742 and died in 1807. He was educated at a school

220 THEODOSIA

in Connecticut and translated portions of the New
Testament and the Prayer Book into his native
tongue. He never really loved the English and
was implicated in the Cherry Valley massacre.
His life was written by Colonel William Leete Stone.
Brandt's son joined the English and fought against
the United States in the War of 1812.

Brandt visited New York in 1797 and called upon
Colonel Burr, in company with a clergyman and
some distinguished public men. Colonel Burr
was absent, but Theodosia, the youthful hostess,
in her fourteenth year, who had, even then, the
charm and brightness of mature womanhood, en-
tertained the party at dinner. The chief, in fact
the entire company, was delighted with her gracious
manners. 'Miss Theodosia," says Col. William
L. Stone, who derived the information from Burr
himself, ' received the forest chief writh all the cour-
tesy and hospitality suggested, and performed the
honors of her father's house in a manner that must
have been as gratifying to her absent parent as it
was creditable to herself.''

'Miss Burr, after she became Mrs. Alston, vis-
ited the Chief at Grand River, in company with
her husband. Seeing that when Brandt saw her
in New York 'she was very young and had as-
sumed a new name,' Governor Clinton gave the
young married couple a cordial letter of introduc-
tion to the Chief (73)"

A modern writer condenses Theodosia's child-
hood, education, and social debut into three para-
graphs (74):

HER LIFE AT RICHMOND HILL

Aside from his concerns of law and land, Aaron devotes a deal of
thought to little Theodosia — child of his soul's heart! In his pride
he hurries her into Horace and Terence at the age of ten, and later
sends her voyaging to Troy with Homer, and all over the world with
Herodotus. Nor is this the whole tale of baby Theodosia's evil for-
tunes. She is taught French, music, drawing, dancing, and whatever
else might convey a gloss. Love-led, pride-blinded, Aaron takes up
the role of father in its most awful form.

"Believe me, my dear," he says to Theodosia mere, who pleads for
an educational leniency- "believe me, I shall prove in our darling
that women have souls, a psychic fact high ones have been heard to
dispute."

At the age of twelve the book-burdened little Theodosia translates
the Constitution into French at Aaron's request; at sixteen she finds
celebration as the most learned of her sex since Voltaire's Emilie.
Theodosia mere, however, is spared the spectacle of her harrowing
erudition, for in the middle of Aaron's term as senator a cancer carries
her off. With that loss, Aaron is more and more drawn to baby Theo-
dosia; she becomes his earth, his heaven, and stands for all his tenderest
hopes. While she is yet a child, he makes her the head of Richmond
Hill, and gives a dinner of state, over which she presides, to the limping
Talleyrand and Volney with his "Ruins of Empire." For all her
precocities, and that hot-house bookishness which should have spoiled
her, baby Theodosia blossoms roundly into womanhood - - beautiful
as brilliant.

The light of the house departed when Theodosia
was married and went to her southern home. Burr
tried to make imagination take the place of reality,
as is pleasantly shown in Parton's account of a
birthday party given to "the absent one.': The
description of the occasion is based upon a letter
written by Burr to his daughter.

On June 23d (the very day upon which it became certain that the
affair with Hamilton could only be terminated by a duel) Theodosia's
birthday came round again , a day on which Richmond Hill, for many
years, had known only the sights and sounds of happiness and mirth.

222 THEODOSIA

Burr was an observer of fete days and family festivals. On this occa-
sion he invited a party to dinner, who, as he wrote the next day to
Theodosia, "laughed an hour and danced an hour and drank her
health." He had her picture brought into the dining-room and placed
at the table where she was accustomed to sit. "But," he added, "as
it is a profile and would not look at us, we hung it up and placed
Nathalie's (his adopted daughter) at table, which laughs and talks with
us." The letter in which these particulars are given is remarkable
for containing a suggestion which has since been admirably improved.
"Your idea," wrote he, "of dressing up pieces of ancient mythology
in the form of amusing tales for children is very good. You yourself
must write them. Send your performances to me, and within three
weeks after they are received, you shall have them again in print.
This will be not only an amusing occupation, but a very useful one to
yourself."

From the age of fourteen until her marriage,
Tneodosia was, as Parton says, 'the engaging mis-
tress of his household, the companion of his lei-
sure, the friend of his mind.'! When public feeling
was aroused against him, after his duel writh Ham-
ilton, when he stood in the temple of justice at Rich-
mond, charged with treason, while detained in
Europe by the personal hostility of political enemies,
when he reached his native land again and was
treated as a social and political outcast - - through
all, his daughter was 'his eloquent, persistent, fear-
less, indomitable champion.'1

We have but to change a Christian name in By-
ron's 'Childe Harold's Pilgrimage' to express
Burr's regard for her:

Theodosia! "Sole daughter of my house and heart."

CHAPTER XI

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE

WHETHER it was a fact or the vagary of
some writer cannot be determined by
any evidence obtainable, but the statement has
been made that Washington Irving was, at one
time, in love with Theodosia Burr. It is well known
that Peter Irving, his brother, was a friend of Colonel
Burr, and one whose friendship was tried and not
found wanting. Washington Irving was, no doubt,
one of the visitors at Richmond Hill, and must
have met Theodosia. He went to Richmond to
attend Burr's trial, and wrote letters in which he
expressed his interest in, and sympathy for, the
distinguished prisoner at the bar. He was also
a great friend of Judge Van Ness, who was Burr's
second in the duel with Hamilton, and her father's
most intimate friend.

When we consider this possible condition of affairs,
those words of Whittier's, "It might have been,"
strike us most forcibly. If Theodosia had mar-
ried Irving and settled down in New York, what
a mistress of Sunnyside she would have made -
what a companion for the man who laid the foun-
dations of American authorship, and built them so
well and so enduringly.

Edward Everett, in a review of "Bracebridge Hall,"

223

THEODOSIA

in the North American Review, said: £We can
scarce express the delight with which we turn to
the definite images such a work excites, from the
vagueness and generality of ordinary story- writing,
where personages without prototypes in any society
on earth can speak a language learned out of books,
without a trait of nature, life, or truth.''

Mary Russell Mitford, in her "Recollections of a
Literary Life," writes: 'I know of no books that
are lent oftener than those bearing the pseudonym
of Geoffrey Crayon. Few, very few, can show a
long succession of volumes so pure, so graceful,
and so varied as Mr. Irving."

The English reviewers vied with each other in
expressing words of commendation. John Neal,
in Blackwood's Magazine, thus referred to the Sketch
Book of Geoffrey Crayon: The Sketch Book is
a beautiful wrork; with some pathos in it; some
rich, pure, bold poetry; some courageous writing;
some wit, and a world of humor, so happy, so nat-
ural, so altogether unlike that of any other man,
dead or alive, that we would rather have been the
writer of it, fifty times over, than of everything else
he has wTitten."

Lord Jeffrey, in the Edinburgh Review, thought
Irving's " Life and Voyages of Columbus" would
"supersede all former works on the same subject,
and never be itself superseded." " Irving," said the
Westminster Review, "has the finish of our best
writers; he has the equality and gentle humor of
Addison and Goldsmith."

"It may be doubted if there is in the language
a more delightful or more perfectly sustained piece

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 225

of drollery than " The History of New York," is
the opinion of Chambers' Encyclopaedia, which
added: 'As Lord Chesterfield said of the witty
scintillations of the Dean of St. Patrick's, 'He that
hath any books in the three kingdoms hath those of
Swift,' so say we, 'He that hath any books in this
great republic should have those of Irving.'

Washington Irving was born in New York City
on the 3d of April (1782). He was nearly fifteen
months older than Theodosia. His first literary
effort, over the signature of "Jonathan Oldstyle,'3
first appeared in the Morning Chronicle, of which
his brother Peter was editor. Irving decided to
become a lawyer; he studied with Joseph Ogden
Hoffman, and opened an office in his native city.
His first and only 'case' is thus described (75):
'It is said that he was never unfortunate enough
to have but one client, and his cause he was alto-
gether too diffident to manage; and so, turning
over both client and cause to one of his brethren
who had less modesty, he left the profession in
disgust, and — what thanks does not the world
owe him ? - - decided to pursue the more flowery
path of literature.'1

Why have we written this? Why have we wan-
dered from historical facts to the realms of imag-
ination? Because we wish that what might have
been, had been. We wish that Theodosia had
become mistress of Sunnyside. With the protect-
ing loves of husband and father, and her presence
with them both, wTe should have been spared the
wrangle with Jefferson, the deadly affair at Wee-
hawken, and the mystery of the Ohio River Island.

226 THEODOSIA

Theodosia would not have suffered from malaria,
induced by the proximity of the sodden rice swamps
to her dwelling; there would have been no stories
of storms and pirates and loss at sea, and Wash-
ington Irving would have been a proud and happy
man with such a wife. This is all fanciful, but it
is an antidote for too much prosaic fact.

One more picture. Come with us to Sunnyside,
in the company of a sympathetic writer (76) :

In the library we find many things as he left them. Of all the
treasured possessions none is so eloquent as the brown quill pen —
rusty with the ink left upon it after the writing of the last word traced
by Irving's hand. The eye often wanders back to it as we move about
among the books and pictures gathered in the plain room with its low
ceiling and casement windows. Over the fireplace is a large painting
of Washington Irving, and the walls are hung with odd drawings of
himself and his characters. Of great interest is the portfolio beside
his desk, containing sketches by Washington Allston - - the original
Darley illustrations for Irving's books — and autograph pictures of
William Cullen Bryant, and other authors. The bookcases, wherein
the novels of Washington's friend, Sir Walter Scott, occupy a promi-
nent place, are suggestive of the days when Irving strolled along the
banks of the Hudson seeking a sheltered nook in which to enjoy these
well-worn volumes. Perhaps there is no better indication of char-
acter than the books a man accumulates. Certain it is that one need
look no farther than these shelves to know that Irving's taste was for
the be4st, though everything in the room betokens the refinement that
characterized his life.

As we leave the library, the impression of culture follows us and still
lingers as we stand upon the black and white squares of the marble
doorstep between two little old seats overhung with vines. From this
point a magnificent sweep of river, hill, and dale delights the eye, and
one cannot help wondering how Irving, with his romantic nature, could
live in such a place and not write poetry. Everything is conducive
to the courting of the muse, from the ivy-clad peaks of the gray stone
dwelling to the glorious Hudson panorama; but though he keenly ap-
preciated the charm of it all, poetical inspiration seemed to be lacking.

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 227

However, if Irving did not write poetry, he has made Sunnyside
a poem in itself. Endowed with great natural beauty, cultivated by
the hand of taste, and hallowed by the presence of the genial author,
its atmosphere is classic, and it is with reluctant steps that we leave
the green-gabled house among the stately trees.

A modern writer draws a pessimistic but truthful
picture of the social condition of the young wroman
of a century ago (77). 'Let the reader put him-
self in the place of the girl or young woman of a
century ago. Rich or poor, in city or country, she
could expect no education much beyond the three
R's and a few accomplishments. She could hope
to earn money for herself only as an inferior - - as
a domestic servant or a dressmaker. She could
look forward only to dependence, to a slavery
voluntary, happy, and easy, perhaps, but none
the less a slavery — as a wife. She must take what-
ever husband she could get, and take whatever he
chose to give. Her happiness and welfare must
be staked on one throw of the die - - marriage.
She was expected to give all her thought and energy
to housekeeping.'1

Theodosia had tread the path of knowledge far
beyond the three R's, and had many accomplish-
ments, but there were only two paths open to her
— life with her father, or marriage. She chose
to marry, and she made a good choice of a husband.

The letter which follows was written by a mem-
ber of the Alston family. It was dated "Fairfield,
Waccamaw (South Carolina), April 10, 1895."

I send you herewith a few facts of the life of Governor Joseph Alston,
which you may use in any form which may suit your purpose. I
enclose also a copy of the epitaph on his tombstone in the family burying-

228 THEODOSIA

ground at "The Oaks " plantation on the Waccamaw River. So many
valuable libraries and records were destroyed or stolen in this part of
the country during the Confederate War, that I have not been able to
find any of his messages or speeches. I am sorry that I have so little
of interest to tell you about him. Governor Alston spelled his name
with one "1"; the artist's branch with two. I do not know that our
family was at all related to Lemuel Alston or the Alstons of North
Carolina.

I send you a paper just published by the Colonial Dames. I have
marked two paragraphs. The Colonial house described by Quincy was
afterwards owned by Governor Joseph Alston's father, Colonel William
Alston, whose second wife was the daughter of Mrs. Rebecca Motte.

In The Meteor, the Colonial Dames' supplement to
the Charleston, S. C., News and Courier, were several
extracts from a journal written by Josiah Quincy of
Massachusetts, who visited South Carolina in 1773.
The book is a very rare one. The first extract re-
lates to a dinner attended by Mr. Quincy:

'March 8. Dined with a large company at Miles
Brewton's, Esq., a gentleman of very large fortune.
A superb house, said to have cost 8,000 pounds ster-
ling. Politics started before dinner. At Mr. Brew-
ton's sideboard was very magnificent plate. A very
fine bird kept familiarly playing about the room,
under our chairs and the table, picking up the crumbs,
and perching under the window and sideboard.'1

The second extract describes Miles Brewton's
beautiful home:

'A stately old house, one of the few fine specimens
of colonial domestic architecture remaining in the
city, now owned by Miss Pringle. Many historic
interests attach to it. Built by Miles Brewlon,
not long before the Revolution, it passed, on his
death, into the possession of his sister, Mrs. Motte,

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 229

and has descended, always in the female line, to its
present owner. During the British occupation of
Charleston it was used as headquarters, and it was in
its beautiful drawing-room that Lord Rawdon re-
fused the petition of the ladies of Charleston, offered
by them in person, for the release of Colonel Nathan
Hale. It was in this house that the first meeting to
discuss resistance to the Crown was held.':

The third extract from Mr. Quincy's journal
gives an account of his visit to The Oaks," the
plantation of Mr. Joseph Alston on the Waccamaw:

"March 23. — Spent the night at Mr. Joseph
Alston's, a gentleman of immense income, all of
his own acquisition. His plantations, negroes,
gardens, etc., are in the best order I have ever seen.
He has propagated the Lisbon and Wine Island grapes
with great success. I was entertained with true hos-
pitality and benevolence by his family. His good
lady filled a wallet with bread, biscuit, wine, fowl, and
tongue, and presented it to me next morning. The
wine I declined, but gladly accepted the rest. At 12
o'clock, in a sandy pine desert, I enjoyed a fine
repast, and having met with a refreshing spring,
I remembered my worthy host, Mr. Alston, and
his lady with a warmth of affection and hearty
benisons. Mr. Alston sent his servant as our guide
between thirty and forty miles, much to our pres-
ervation from many vexations and difficulties."

The writer of the letter on page 227, ante, supplied
the following interesting account of Colonel Alston
and his ancestors:

The ancestors of Governor Joseph Alston were among the first
settlers in Georgetown County, South Carolina. His great-grand-

230 THEODOSIA

father was William Alston, who died in 1743, leaving many children.
From one of these (William) was descended Washington Allston, the
artist; from another (Joseph Alston of "The Oaks") was descended
Governor Joseph Alston. The first Joseph Alston was a gentleman
of large fortune and great intelligence, who did much to settle and im-
prove the Parish of All Saints, Waccamaw, in which he lived. He
is mentioned in Josiah Quincy's Diary in 1773. He died when his
grandson was a boy, but discerning his rare talents, he left him his
valuable estate "The Oaks," with the strict injunction in his will that
he should have the most liberal education. The father of Governor
Joseph Alston was William Alston, a Captain under General Marion
during the Revolution, and his mother was Mary Ashe, first wife of
William Alston, and a daughter of General Ashe of North Carolina,
after whom the city of Asheville was named. The second wife of
William Alston was a daughter of Mrs. Rebecca Motte. After receiv-
ing a careful education, Joseph Alston studied law in the office of
Edward Rutledge, one of the signers of the Declaration of Indepen-
dence, who predicted for him a brilliant future. He commenced the
practice of the law, but, having a large fortune, soon gave it up and
devoted himself to politics. At a very early age he was elected to the
Legislature and made a speaker of the House, and in 1812, Governor
of the State, but death cut short his career at the age of 37. He was
amiable in manner, and as fluent in conversation as in debate, and
wrote poetry with as much ease as prose. His house at "The Oaks"
was destroyed by fire many years ago, and the estate suffered much
from the ravages of the Confederate War - - it has now passed out of
the hands of his family, who only retain the right to the burial ground
and a few odd volumes of the once very handsome library of classical
English and French books. It is a subject of great regret to his rela-
tives that they have no likeness of him. The only one ever taken was
in a large family group, which was stolen from the residence of one of
his brothers during the Confederate War. The fate of his wife, Theo-
dosia Burr Alston, will forever be wrapped in mystery, but Governor
Alston and the family always thought that the schooner Patriot, in
which she sailed for New York to visit her father, foundered at sea
with all on board, in the severe gale which occurred the day after she
left Georgetown, and disbelieved all the sensational stories of her hav-
ing been captured by pirates.

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 231

Another member of the Alston family, in a letter
from Petigou, South Carolina, of date November
8, 1894, wrote:

Governor Joseph Alston was a distant relative of mine, being the
son of my grandmother's first cousin, and the grandson of my great-
grandfather's first cousin. . . . Governor Alston took a prominent
part in abolishing the property qualification for others in which he
was opposed by many of his own relatives, my own immediate rela-
tives being among the number, and the contest in the Parish of All
Saints in Georgetown County, where he and they resided, gave rise
to several duels. I remember being told that at his inauguration as
Governor, at Columbia, his coach was drawn by four white mules.
His father was prominent on the turf, and owned many of the most
favored racers of the day. He deserved a biography, but I know of
none, and any private records would probably be in the possession
of his more immediate family. I do not remember to have ever seen
a portrait of him, nor do I know if one exists.

A short reference to Colonel Alston is found in
a recent work relating to the Alston family (78).

Colonel Joseph Alston was a man of more than ordinary ability
and great popularity in the State. His connection with Theodosia
Burr, and her ultimate loss at sea, are of historic record and need not
be dwelt upon at length. He married her in 1801, when Aaron Burr
was at the height of his popularity, having just been elected to the Vice-
presidency. Her education, under the personal supervision of her
father, had been conducted with the utmost care; thus with natural
quickness of perception and aptitude for learning, she became one of
the most accomplished women of the day. To this was added personal
beauty and attractiveness, rare ease and grace of manner, with strict
observance of the proprieties of life. She had an only son, Aaron Burr
Alston.

Theodosia's masculine education had made her
argumentative. Besides, she had been separated
a great deal from her father, and she wished to
enjoy his society. It is no wonder, then, that when

232 THEODOSIA

Colonel Alston proposed, although he was accepted,
there was a proviso that the wedding should be
postponed for a year at least. She was opposed,
or professed to be opposed, to early marriages,
and in a letter to her fiance wrote: 'Aristotle says
that 'a man should not marry before he is six-and-
thirty'; pray, Mr. Alston, what arguments have
you to oppose such authority?'

To this challenge Colonel Alston replied at great
length, incorporating a veritable legal argument,
philosophy, poetry, geography, and social lauda-
tion and criticism in a manner that would have
been bewildering to a young woman less fully edu-
cated than Theodosia. We present the main fea-
tures of his argument, which show that as a lover
he was certainly no laggard.

CHARLESTON, S. C., December 28, 1800.

Hear me, Miss Burr.

It has always been my practice, whether from a natural indepen-
dence of mind, from pride, or what other cause I will not pretend to
say, never to adopt the opinion of anyone, however respectable his
authority, unless thoroughly convinced by his arguments; the "ipse
dixit," as logicians term it, even of Cicero, who stands higher in my
estimation than any other author, would not have the least weight with
me; you must, therefore, till you offer better reasons in support of his
opinion than the Grecian sage himself has done, excuse my differing
from him.

Objections to early marriages can rationally only arise from want
of discretion, or want of fortune in the parties; now, as you very well
observe, the age of discretion is wholly uncertain, some men reaching
it at twenty, others at thirty, some again not till fifty, and many not at
all ; of course, to fix such or such a period as the proper one for marrying
is ridiculous. Even the want of fortune is to be considered differently
according to the country where the marriage is to take place ; for though
in some places a fortune is absolutely necessary to a man before he

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 233

marries, there are others, as in the eastern states, for example, where
he marries expressly for the purpose of making a fortune.

But, allowing both these objections their full force, may there not
be a single case that they do not reach ? Suppose (for instance, merely)
a young man nearly two-and-twenty, already of the greatest discretion,
with an ample fortune, were to be passionately in love with a young lady
almost eighteen, equally discreet with himself, and who had a "sincere
friendship" for him, do you think it would be necessary to make him
wait till thirty? particularly where the friends on both sides were
pleased with the match.

Were I to consider the question personally, since you allow that
"individual character" ought to be consulted, no objection certainly
could be made to my marrying early.

From my father's plan of education for me, I may properly be called
a hot-bed plant. Introduced from my infancy into the society of men,
while yet a boy I was accustomed to think and act like a man. On every
occasion, however important, I was left to decide for myself. I do
not recollect a single instance where I was controlled even by advice;
for it was my father's invariable maxim, that the best way of strengthen-
ing the judgment was to suffer it to be constantly exercised. Before
seventeen, I finished my college education; before twenty, I was ad-
mitted to the bar. Since that time I have been constantly travelling
through different parts of the United States; to what purpose, I leave
you to determine.

From this short account of myself, you may judge whether my
manners and sentiments are not, by this time, in some degree formed.

But let us treat the subject abstractedly; and, as we have shown
that under particular circumstances no disadvantages result from
early marriages, let us see if any positive advancement attend them.

Happiness in the marriage state, you will agree with me, can only
be obtained from the most complete congeniality of mind and dispo-
sition, and the most exact similarity of habits and pursuits; now,
though their natures may generally resemble, no two persons can be
entirely of the same mind and disposition, the same habits and pur-
suits, unless after the most intimate and early association; I say early,
for it is in youth only the mind and disposition receive the complexion
we would give them; it is then only that our habits are moulded or our
pursuits directed as we please; as we advance in life, they become
fixed and unchangeable, and instead of our governing them, govern

234 THEODOSIA

us. Is it not, therefore, better, upon every principle of happiness, that
persons should marry young, when, directed by mutual friendship,
each might assimilate to the other, than wait till a period when their
passions, their prejudices, their habits, etc., become so rooted that
there neither exists an inclination nor power to correct them? Dr.
Franklin, a very strong advocate for my system, and, I think, at least
as good authority as Aristotle, very aptly compares those who marry
early to two young trees joined together by the hand of the gardener :

"Trunk knit with trunk, and branch with branch intwined,
Advancing still, more closely they are joined;
At length, full grown, no difference we see,
But, 'stead of two, behold a single tree!"

Those, on the other hand, who do not marry till late, say "thirty,"
for example, he likens to two ancient oaks:

"Use all your force, they yield not to your hand,
But firmly in their usual stations stand;
While each, regardless of the other's views,
Stubborn and fix'd, it's natural bent pursues!"

But this is not all; it is in youth that we are best fitted to enjoy that
exquisite happiness which the marriage state is capable of affording,
and the remembrance of which forms so pleasing a link in that chain
of friendship that binds to each other two persons who have lived to-
gether any number of years. Our ideas are then more refined; every
generous and disinterested sentiment beats higher; and our sensibility
is far more alive to every emotion our associate may feel. Depend
upon it, the man who does not love till "thirty" will never, never love;
long before that period he will become too much enamoured of his
own dear self to think of transferring his affections to any other object.
He may marry, but interest alone will direct him in the choice of his
wife; far from regarding her as the sweetest friend and companion of
his life, he will consider her but as an unavoidable incumbrance upon
the estate she brings him. And can you really hope, my dear Theo-
dosia, with all your ingenuity, to convince me that such a being will
enjoy equal happiness in marriage with me? with me about to enter
into it with such rapture; who anticipates so perfect a heaven from our
uniting in every study, improving our minds together, and informing

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 235

each other by our mutual assistance and observations ? No - - 1 give
you full credit for your talents, but there are some causes so bad that
even you cannot support them.

Theodosia wrote to her lover on January 13,
1801, but although sixteen days had elapsed, his re-
ply to her challenge had not reached her. It will
be seen that she capitulated in advance by saying
"to your solicitations I yield my judgment"; or,
in other words, "I surrender, but I am right.'1

NEW YORK, January 13, 1801.

I have already written to you by the post to tell you that I shall be
happy to see you whenever you choose; that, I suppose, is equivalent
to very soon; and that you may no longer feel doubts or suspicions on
my account, I repeat the invitation by a packet as less dilatory than
the mail. But for all these doubts and suspicions I will take ample
revenge when we meet.

I yesterday received your letter of the 26th December, and am ex-
pecting your defence of early marriages to-day. My father laughs
at my impatience to hear from you, and says I am in love; but I do
not believe that to be a fair deduction, for the post is really very irregular
and slow — enough so to provoke anybody.

We leave this for Albany on the 26th inst., and shall remain there
until the 10th of February. My movements after that will depend
upon my father and you. I had intended not to marry this twelve-
month, and in that case thought it wrong to divert you from your
present engagements in Carolina; but to your solicitations I yield my
judgment. Adieu. I wish you many returns of the century.
P. S. I have not yet received your promised letter; but I hope it may
be long in proportion to the time I have been expecting it. The packet
has been delayed by head winds, but now that they are fair, she will
have a quick passage; at least, such I wish it. Adieu, encore.

THEODOSIA.

The first announcement of the wedding was in
the New York Commercial Advertiser of Febru-
ary 7, 1801:

236 THEODOSIA

' Married — At Albany, on the 2d instant, by
the Rev. Mr. JOHNSON, JOSEPH ALSTON, of South
Carolina, to THEODOSIA BURR, only child of AARON
BURR, Esq. (79)."

Parton thus refers to the marriage: 'And Theo-
dosia was married. While the politicians supposed
that Colonel Burr was full of the alleged tie negotia-
tion, and some of them imagined that he was intrigu-
ing with all his might for the Presidency, he was, in
reality, occupied with the marriage of his daughter
with Joseph Alston of South Carolina, which oc-
curred while the great question was pending/'

Mrs. Peacock tells of events subsequent to the
marriage (80) :

In February, 1801, a few months before she was eighteen, Theo-
dosia was married to Joseph Alston, of South Carolina. He also was
young, being but twenty-two, and wealthy, possessing extensive rice
plantations, talented and ambitious, though as yet without a specific
object on which to expend these qualities. He had studied law and
been admitted to the bar, though he had not begun to practise. Upon
Burr's suggestion he entered upon a political career, rising eventually
to the governorship of his State.

Theodosia argued for a deferment of the marriage, quoting Aristotle,
that a man should not marry till he was thirty-six. With convincing
eloquence and ardor, Alston replied, winning his suit, notwithstanding
Aristotle and other equally eminent authorities.

On February 7, 1801, the New York Commercial Advertiser an-
nounced the marriage, which had taken place on the 2d, at Albany,
where the Legislature, of which Burr was then a member, was in ses-
sion. It was a period of intense excitement throughout the country,
and the names of Jefferson and Burr were in all mouths. The people
of the country had cast a tie vote, which threw the election into the
House of Representatives. Party spirit manifested itself for the first
time in the young republic, and the strength of the Constitution was
nearly put to a severe test.

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 237

Theodosia, on her way to her new home in the South, stopped in
Washington, where, on the 4th of March, she saw her father inducted
into the Vice-presidency.

Her marriage and her father's new honors inaugurated for her three
years of absolute happiness. Though her husband's home and her
father's were a journey of twenty days apart, she went frequently back
and forth, and though she wrote to her husband during one of her
early visits to her old home, "Where you are, there is my country,
and in you are centered all my wishes," she was undoubtedly in better
health and spirits when in her northern home. Her winters were
passed in Charleston, where she was well received and much beloved,
and where she became an important factor in her husband's political
success.

Theodosia had a honeymoon. One week of it
was passed in Albany, her father, at that time,
being a member of the New York Legislature.
Thence to New York to the old home - - Rich-
mond Hill. The stay there was short, and on the
28th of February they were met at Baltimore by
Colonel Burr, who had written her from Albany
that he would overtake her by that date.

The next step was to Washington, where the
young couple witnessed the inauguration of Jeffer-
son as President and the induction of Burr as Vice-
president. Then came the parting between father
and daughter - - as long deferred as possible, but
now imperative. On the 8th of March Burr wrote
to his daughter: "Your little letter from Alex-
andria assured me of your safety, and for a moment
consoled me for your absence. The only solid con-
solation is the belief that you will be happy, and
the certainty that we shall often meet."

On March 11 he wrote to her again from Wash-
ington: "Nothing but matrimony will prevent my

238 THEODOSIA

voyage to Charleston and Georgetown." He wrote
again on March 29, from New York: "At Phil-
adelphia I saw many, many who inquired after
you with great interest. ... I approached home
as I would approach the sepulchre of all my friends.
Dreary, solitary, comfortless. It was no longer
home. . . . We conclude that you got home on
the 16th (March). It has been snowing here this
whole day most vehemently. You are blessed
with 'gentler skies.' May all other blessings unite. ':

In his letter of April 15, 1801, from New York,
he said: "Your letters of the 24th and 25th March,
received yesterday, give me the first advice of your
safe arrival at Clifton. The cordial and affection-
ate reception you have met consoles me, as far as
anything can console me, for your absence. 5:

On April 29 he wrote that he had given up all
hope of coming South to see her. Theodosia had
been remiss in her correspondence, and the Teacher
Burr objected. He said her last letter reminded
him of one written by a French lady to her husband.
It ran thus: "My dear husband: I write you be-
cause I have nothing to do; I finish because I have
nothing to say.': He continued: 'By this vessel
I send two dozen pairs of long colored kid gloves,
and half a dozen of pretty little short ones, for use
when you ride horseback. I wTish you would often
give me orders, that I may have the pleasure of
doing something for you or your amiable family.'1

On May 26, about four months after her mar-
riage, he wrote: "By the time this can reach you,
you wTill be ready to embark for New York. You will
find me in Broadway. Richmond Hill \vill remain

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 239

vacant until your arrival." On August 20 he wrote:
"I was so very solicitous that you should see Niag-
ara, that I was constantly filled with apprehension
lest something might prevent it. Your letter of
the 29th of July relieves me. You had actually
seen it. Your determination to visit Brandt gives
me great pleasure, particularly as I have lately
received a very friendly letter from him, in which
he recapitulates your hospitality to him in ancient
days, and makes very kind inquiries respecting
you; all this before he could have entertained the
remotest idea of seeing you in his own kingdom."

In his letter of November 3 he said: 'It is very
kind, indeed, to write me so often. . . . You made
two, perhaps more, conquests on your northern
tour - King Brandt and the stage-driver ; both of
whom have been profuse in their eulogies. Brandt
has written me two letters on the subject. It would
have been quite in . style if he had scalped your
husband and made you queen of the Mohawks."

Theodosia and her husband must have visited
Burr in New York, for in his letter of November
9 he wrote: "It is quite consoling to find that you
will have taken the precaution to inquire the state of
health before you venture your precious carcass into
Charleston. A fever would certainly mistake you
for strangers and snap at two such plump, ruddy ani-
mals as you were when you left New York.'

Burr had been meditating the sale of Richmond
Hill for $140,000. In his letter of November 20,
he said: "The sale of Richmond Hill is all off;
blown up at the moment of counting the money,
partly by whim and partly by accident." Great

240 THEODOSIA

events hang on small circumstances. Had Burr
sold Richmond Hill and gone to South Carolina,
the history of the United States would have been
changed greatly.

Theodosia had asked him to send her apples,
nuts, lucerne seed, a cook, and a chambermaid.
Referring to the chambermaid, he wrote: "That
whom I shall send you is a good, steady looking
animal, aged 23. From appearance, she has been
used to count her beads and work hard, and never
thought of love or finery. . . . You are in equal
luck with a cook. I have had him on trial a fort-
night, and he is the best I ever had in the house;
for cakes, pastry, and jimcracks, far superior to
Anthony. In short, he is too good for you, and
I have a great mind not to send him; you will be
forever giving good dinners."

From Philadelphia, on November 26, he sent
"Your reception has, indeed, been charming;
it reads more like an extract from some romance
than matter of fact happening in the nineteenth
century within the United States. . . . Your letter
is pretty and lively, and indicates health, content,
and cheerfulness, which is much better than if you
had told me so, for then I should not have believed
a word of it."

In his of December 8, again the literary mentor:
'In your reading, I wrish you would learn to read
newspapers; not to become a partisan in politics,
God forbid; but they contain the occurrences of the
day, and furnish the standing topics of conversa-
tion. . . . With the aid of a gazetteer and atlas,
you must find every place that is spoken of."

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE

If the pupils of our public schools at the pres-
ent day would follow the excellent plan of reading
and reference above outlined, it would remove
that lamentable lack of knowledge of geography
now so prevalent.

The letter which follows, written on December
13, 1801, would seem to indicate that President
Jefferson antedated by more than a century Pres-
ident Roosevelt's remarks on 'race suicide.'' The
letter was addressed to Colonel Alston, his son-in-
law. "The President's message, of which a copy
was sent you by this ship, will have reached you
through other channels long before her arrival.
One idea contained in the message is much ap-
plauded by our ladies. They unite in the opinion
that the 'energies of the men ought to be princi-
pally employed in the multiplication of the human
race,' and in this they promise an ardent and ac-
tive co-operation. ... I hope the fair of your
State will equally testify their applause of this sen-
timent; and I enjoin it on you to manifest your
patriotism and your attachment to the administration
by 'exerting your energies' in the manner indicated.

'To kill is brutal, to create Divine."

In writing the above, Colonel Burr was jocose
at his son-in-law's expense, as is evidenced by read-
ing President Jefferson's exact words: 'I lay before
you the result of the census lately taken of
our inhabitants. . . . You will perceive that the
increase of numbers during the last ten years,
proceeding in geometrical ratio, promises a duplica-
tion in little more than twenty-two years. We

242 THEODOSIA

contemplate this rapid growth and the prospect
it holds up to us, not with a view to the injuries
it may enable us to do others in some future day,
but to the settlement of the extensive country still
remaining., vacant within our limits, to the multi-
plication of men susceptible of happiness, educated
in the love of order, habituated to self-govern-
ment, and valuing its blessings above all price."

The population of the United States in 1800
was 5,308,483; in 1820, 9,633,822; in 1830, 12,866-
020; so President Jefferson's prognostication was
not quite verified in twenty-two years, but more
than confirmed by 1830.

Quickly follows a letter to Theodosia on Decem-
ber 15: 'Yesterday Mr. Phelps delivered to me
two pairs of moccasins, directed - ' From Captain
Joseph Brandt to Mr. and Mrs. Alston.' I send
you the original letter of Captain Brandt merely
to show how an Indian can write. It is his own
handwriting and composition. You should write
him a letter of acknowledgment for his hospital-
ity. . . . E. has a lover - - measures six feet eight
inches and a half, shoes off; but so very modest
that they will never come to an explanation unless
she shall begin.'5

On January 12, 1802, he wrote: "I have only
time before closing of the mail to send you these
few lines, hoping they will find you in good health,
as I am at this present time, etc. A form of salu-
tation to be found in a public letter of Julius Csesar,
and in one of Cicero's familiar epistles. ':

In that of January 16, 1802, is a reference to the
new couple starting housekeeping, and the ques-

M.

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 243

tion of health: 'It (yours) will be one of the most
cheerful and amiable homes in the United States.
I am gratified that you do not start with splendor;
to descend with dignity is rare. . . . You must
walk a great deal. It is the only exercise you can
take with safety and advantage, and, being in
Charleston, I fear you will neglect it. I do en-
treat you to get a very stout pair of over shoes, or
short boots, to draw on over your shoes. But shoes
to come up to the ankle bone, with one button to
keep them on, will be best; thick enough, how-
ever, to turn water. The weather has not yet
required this precaution, but very soon it will, and
I pray you to write me that you are so provided ;
without them you will not, cannot walk, and with-
out exercise you will suffer in the month of May.
To be at ease on this subject, you must learn to
walk without your husband - - alone - - or if you
must be in form, with ten negroes at your heels.
Your husband will often be occupied at the hours
you would desire to walk, and you must not bother
him: Oh, never."

His letter of January 22, 1802, complained of
Theodosia's failure to write to him regularly: ''Five
weeks without hearing from you! Intolerable.
Now I think to repose myself in sullen silence for
five weeks from this date. . . . Tell me that Mari
(French for husband) is happy, and I shall know
that you are all so. Adieu, my dear little negli-
gent baggage. ... Do not suffer a tooth to be
drawn or any operation to be performed upon your

teeth."

The next letter in order was to Colonel Alston,

244 THEODOSIA

and congratulated him, in veiled terms, on the
expected advent of an heir or heiress.

"Your letter of the 10th January was the first
evidence of your existence which I had received
for near a month preceding. I hope your wife
is allowed the use of pen, ink, and paper. Her
letter, three days later, has been also received.
The successful 'execution of your energies' is highly
grateful to me. It seems probable that I shall
pronounce, in person, on the merit of the work-
manship somewhere about May day. . . . When
you shall be both settled in your own home, I crave
a history of one day, in the manner of Swift's Jour-
nal to Stella; or, as you do not like imitation, in
your own manner.'1

Again to Theodosia on February 2, 1802, the
first anniversary of her wedding day; no congratu-
lation, but a touch of sarcasm, and a prophecy
of coming trouble in her housekeeping.

'I wish you would teach half a dozen of your
Negroes to write; then you might lay on the sofa,
and if you could submit to the labour of thinking
and dictating, the thing would go on. ... The
cook had only Peggy to aid him; but as Peggy
is equal to about forty South Carolina Africans,
he is very reasonable if he asks only thirty-five,
and ought to be indulged. Your maid will make
a miserable housekeeper and be spoiled as a femme
de chambre, which last character is, I take it, the
more important one. ... I am now going to smoke
a segar and pray for you."

Burr did not consider the life of Vice-president
an exciting one. He wrote his daughter: "My

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 245

life has no variety, and, of course, no incident.
To my feelings your letters are the most impor-
tant occurrence. I am blessed with three of them
in three months. It did not use to he so. ... 1
live at Mr. Law's, not nominally, but in fact. Mi
Madison is distant one mile. Anna Payne (Mrs.
Madison's sister) is a great belle. Miss Nichol-
son (daughter of Commodore James Nicholson
and sister of Mrs. Gallatin) ditto, but more retired;
frequently, however, at Mrs. Law's.

Reference has been made to the fact that Colonel
Alston's father took great interest in horse racing.
Theodosia sent her father newspapers containing
accounts of some races. Burr replied: 'I am very
glad that Papa Alston has won once. It is, I am
told, the first time in his life.':

Burr thus describes an accident: 'General Smith's
carriage has just ran away with four ladies, viz.:
Mrs. Smith, Miss Speare, Miss Smith, and Mrs.
Law. Miss Smith was taken up dead and brought
home dead; it cannot be discovered that she has
received the slightest injury, save being frightened
to death, as before mentioned. Miss Speare came
off unhurt. Mrs. Smith and Mrs. Law are much
bruised. You will, I hope, understand that the
horses ran off with the carriage, and not that the
carriage, of its own mere motion, ran off with
the ladies."

In his of February 27, 1802, to his daughter,
the severe schoolmaster: "Your last letter is pleasant
and cheerful. Careless, incorrect, slovenly, illeg-
ible. I dare not show a sentence of it, even to
Eustis. God mend you."

246 THEODOSIA

Burr was looking forward to an adjournment of
Congress and a vacation to be spent with his daugh-
ter: "I could with pleasure have passed the summer
with you in the mountains ; but the heat and dissipa-
tion of Sullivan's Island is not so inviting.'1

Theodosia was nearly twenty now, but still under
the literary domination of her pedagogic father.

"From an accurate attention to the dates of your
letters, I discover that you write on Sunday only
that if, by accident or mental indisposition, to which
people in warm climates are liable, the busines:
should be put off for that day, it lays over to the
next Sunday, and so to a third or fourth, accord-
ing to exigencies, active or passive. . . . Your last
was sealed on the writing, a vulgarism which I
again condemn."

Burr wished his daughter to go into the moun-
tains before her child was born, but Papa and
Mama Alston wished Theodosia to stay with them.
He wrote his son-in-law on March 8, 1802: "With
her Northern constitution, she will bring you some
puny brat that will never last the summer out; but
in your mountains, one might expect to see it climb
a precipice at three weeks old. ... I shall come
though at your hazard, which, you know, would
be a great consolation to me if I should be caught
by a bilious fever in some rice swTamps."

In his of March 14, 1802, more complaint about
her letters, and a very uncomplimentary opinion
of his own personal appearance.

Your last was sealed, as too often before, on
the writing. If your Mari (husband) denies you

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 247

a sheet of paper, pray lay out one of your four hun-
dred dollars for this purpose. Adieu, my dear
child. ... A lady of rank and consequence, who
had a great curiosity to see the Vice-president,
after several plans and great trouble, at length
was gratified, and she declared that he was the
very ugliest man she had ever seen in her life. His
bald head, pale hatchet visage, and harsh coun-
tenance, certainly verify the lady's conclusion.
Your very ugly and affectionate father,

A. BURR.

• » On April 5, 1802, Burr wrote his daughter that
he was corning South. 'My route will be through
Richmond and Petersburgn to Fayetteville, and
thence to Georgetown and Clifton, where I pre-
sume I shall find Papa Alston, Ellen, etc. ... I
have ordered Vanderlyn to send you, from New
York, both his and Stuart's picture of A. Burr,
and I have told him to ship himself for the port
of Charleston on the first of May. I have also
desired that my beautiful little bust of Bonaparte
be sent to Mr. William Alston."

Colonel Burr did actually go South to see his
daughter. He arrived at Clifton on May 3, 1802.
Theodosia was in Charleston, a day's ride away.
So he wrote her: "Unfortunately the stage was
full — not even a seat vacant for the Vice-presi-
dent. I am, therefore, doomed to remain here
one day longer, and be two days on the road. . . .
William arrived here this afternoon and tells us
that you are well, and your husband ill. This
is exactly wrong, unless he means to take the whole

248 THEODOSIA

trouble off your hands, as some good husbands
have heretofore done; so, at least, Darwin records.
God bless thee, my dear Theodosia.':

It seems strange that Colonel Burr did not re-
quest his daughter, or perhaps command her, to
keep a diary during the first year of her married
life. If she had done so, we should have had an
account more in detail of the occurrences at Charles-
ton, during her trip North, and her life at the Oaks.
But by reading between the lines of her father's
letters, we can form a good idea of what took place.
We know that at first she was welcomed by the
highest grade of South Carolina society. She was
used to good company — to the best - - and un-
doubtedly was fully at home wherever her hus-
band's relatives and friends were found.

The fine old estate, the Oaks, had been left to
Colonel Alston by his grandfather. For the use
of the young couple it required refurnishing, and
orders for what was needed were sent to Colonel
Burr in New York and shipped by him by water,
then the speediest means of communication be-
tween the North and South. One of Theodosia's
orders was for a cook and a chambermaid, and
her father took great pleasure in filling it. At
the Oaks there were plenty of negro servants. All
was in readiness, and now there is an heir to the
house of Alston.

The father of the mother - the grandfather of
this young scion of a noble family - - was Vice-
president of the United States. What more nat-
ural than that he should bear an honored name,
and one that his parents fondly hoped would be

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 249

honored in the future ? - - that of Aaron Burr Al-
ston.

Colonel Burr was in the South when this inter-
esting event took place. He never loved the rice
fields of South Carolina, which he said were full
of malaria. It can be inferred that he prevailed
upon his daughter to come North as soon as she
was able. Whatever argument he may have used,
it is a fact that she was in the city of New York
on the 24th of June, 1802, at which time she
wrote a very interesting letter to her husband.

We arrived yesterday morning, exactly the eighth day since I left
you. Our passage was pleasant inasmuch as we had no storms, and
the most obliging, attentive captain. I never met with more unre-
mitted politeness. He was constantly endeavoring to tempt my appe-
tite by all the delicacies in his own stores. To the child he proved an
excellent nurse when I was fatigued and the rest sick. We are now
in my father's town house. . . .

I have just returned from a ride in the country and a visit to Rich-
mond Hill. Never did I behold this island so beautiful. The variety
of vivid greens; the finely cultivated fields and gaudy gardens; the
neat, cool air of the cit's boxes, peeping through straight rows of tall
poplars, and the elegance of some gentlemen's seats, commanding a
view of the majestic Hudson and the high, dark shores of New Jersey,
altogether form a scene so lively, so touching, and to me now so new,
that I was in constant rapture. How much did I wish for you to join
with me in admiring it. WTith how much regret did I recollect some
rides we took together last summer. Ah, my husband, why are we
separated ? I had rather have been ill on Sullivan's Island with you,
than well, separated from you. Even my amusements serve to in-
crease my unhappiness; for if anything affords me pleasure, the thought
that were you here, you also would feel pleasure, and thus redouble
mine, at once puts an end to my enjoyment. You do not know how
constantly my whole mind is employed in thinking of you. Do you,
my husband, think as frequently of your Theo, and wish for her ? Do
you really feel a vacuum in your pleasures ? As for your wife, she has

250 THEODOSIA

bid adieu to pleasure till next October. When, when will that month
come ? It appears to me a century off. I can scarcely yet realise to
myself that we are to be so long separated. Do not imagine, however,
that I mean to beg you to join me this summer. No, my husband, I
know your reasons, and I approve them. Your wife feels a consola-
tion in talking of her sorrows to you; but she would think herself un-
worthy of you could she not find fortitude enough to bear them. God
knows how delighted I shall be when once again in your arms ; but how
much would my happiness be diminished by recollecting that your
advancement and interest suffered. When we meet let there be nothing
to alloy a happiness so pure, so unbounded. Our little boy grows
charmingly; he is much admired here. The color of his eyes is not yet
determined. You shall know when it is. ...

Have you any rice on hand ? It sells here for five dollars cash.
If you have any, had you not better send it? Papa intends writing
to you on the subject.

I began a letter to you this morning in time for the mail, but was
prevented by innumerable visits, which commenced before I was dressed
for breakfast. I am most impatiently waiting for a letter from you.
I hope you wrote soon after my departure. I am counting every
minute to next Wednesday, when I hope to receive one, though I have
many fears it is too early. With how much anxiety do I expect a
letter. Maybe, one of these days, I will tell you of a piece of weakness
of mine on that subject; maybe, for I do not know whether it is quite
right for a wife to display all her foibles in that way to her husband.
We have not yet determined when or where we shall move in the
country. It shall certainly not be long ere we leave the city.

On the 26th of June, 1802, she wrote again to
her husband, from New York. In her letter it
will be noticed that she asked her husband a ques-
tion which years before her father, while superin-
tending her education, had asked her.

When, when will the month of October come ? It appears to recede
instead of approaching; and time, which extinguishes all other sorrows,
serves but to increase mine; every moment I feel that I have lost so much
of your society which can never be regained. Ah, my husband, what
can be pleasure to your Theo, unassisted by the charms of your presence

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE

and participation ? Nothing. It is an idea which has no place in my
mind unconnected with you. . . .

If you should do so rash a thing as to visit the city during the sum-
mer, pray smoke all the time you remain there ; it creates an atmosphere
round you, and prevents impure air from reaching you. I wish also
that you would never be in town before or after the middle of the day.
I have somewhere heard that persons were less apt to catch infectious
disorders at that time than any other, and I believe it. Have you
never remarked how highly scented the air is before sunrise in a flower-
garden, so much so as to render the smell of any flower totally imper-
ceptible if you put it to your nose ? That is, I suppose, because, when
the sun acts with all his force, the air becomes so rarified, that the
quantity of perfume you inhale at a breath can have no effect; while,
on the contrary, during the night, the vapours become so condensed
that you perceive them in every blast. May not the same be the case
with noxious vapours ? It is said that the fever in Charleston does
not arise from that, but the filth of the streets is quite enough to make
one think otherwise. Perhaps I am wrong both in my reason and
opinion. If so, you are able to correct; only do as you think best, and
be prudent. It is all I ask. I imagine the subject worth a reflection,
and you cannot err. Montesquieu says he writes to make people
think; and why may not Theodosia? . . .

Our son looks charmingly. Adieu.

THEODOSIA.

The next letter to her husband, written in New
York, June 28, 1802, shows that she had not for-
gotten her father's teaching. She was in a happy
mood because she had received a letter from her
husband.

Your letter of the 16th, which I received yesterday, delighted me
the more as it was unexpected. I did not hope you would have written
so soon; less did I imagine a letter from Charleston would reach this
on the eleventh day after date. How anxious I am for to-morrow.
Perhaps I shall hear from you again. . . .

And do you, indeed, miss your Theo? Do you really find happi-
ness indissolubly blended with her presence ? Ah, my husband, how
much more amiable you are as the man than as the philosopher!

252 THEODOSIA

How much better your wife can love you! . . . Believe me, it is a very
mistaken idea that to discover sensibility at parting with a friend in-
creases their sorrow. No; it consoles them. That apparent indiffer-
ence, instead of lessening their pain at separation, only adds to it the
mortification of finding themselves alone, wounds their feelings by
the idea that, where they expected the most sincere reciprocity, they
meet with the most calm tranquillity; and above all, is apt to make
them involuntarily exclaim — If I am thus regretted, how little shall
I be thought of! How soon forgotten! Never, then, my beloved,
attempt to play the philosopher. If you see a friend weeping, weep
with them. Sympathy is the sovereign cure for all wounds of the
heart. . . .

Pray, write your journal this summer, you have little else to do. I
should be charmed to find it finished on my return. Adieu.

The next letter to her husband was from Colonel
Burr. Why he wrote instead of Theodosia is ex-
plained in the letter. It bore the date of July 3,
1802.

Your letter of the 19th of June, covering two for Theodosia, was
received this morning. She, with Lady Nisbett and ybur boy, sailed
yesterday for Red Hook (120 miles North) on a visit to Mrs. A., who
had solicited this attention in terms and under circumstances which
admitted of no refusal. The boy has grown surprisingly. The mother
has recovered her appetite and spirits. I shall go up to take care of
them in ten or fifteen days.

I desire your father to bring or send a barrel of rough rice (rice un-
pounded). The young Scotchman of whom I spoke to him has already
invented a machine which I think will clean ten times as much as your
pounding machine with the same power; that is, ten times as fast.
Send the rice that we may try.

On the 5th of July, 1802, Colonel Burr wrote
to his adopted daughter Nathalie:

Your letter of the 22d of February, announcing your intended
marriage, is this moment received. Nothing could be more grateful
to me than the proposed connexion with Mr. Sumter. I know little
of him personally, but his reputation and standing in society fully

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 253

justify your choice, and I pray you to assure him that I shall most
cordially take him to my bosom as a son. With his father I have been
long acquainted, and always greatly respected him. We were fellow-
soldiers during our Revolutionary War, in which he acted a most dis-
tinguished part, though we were not then known to each other. We
served together some years in Congress, and labored in the same party.
These circumstances never fail to generate attachments, and I am
truly happy in being more closely allied to him. . . .

I perceive, and with pleasure, that I shall pass much of my time
in South Carolina, and shall divide it between you and Theodosia;
but the mountains are my favorite residence. Which is my favorite
daughter, I have not yet been able to decide. We must not, however,
abandon New York. I will have you both here, if possible, every
year, and at Richmond Hill you shall renew the recollection of the
happy hours of your childhood. . . .

I arrived here on the 23rd, with Theodosia, her boy - - a most lovely
boy - - and her sister, Lady Nesbitt, who salutes you as a sister and
longs to embrace you. We had a most charming passage of seven days.
P. S. I have not received a line from your mamma in some years.
I am not at all surprised at her repugnance to your marriage with a
democrat, the son of a rebel. She must hate, above all things, demo-
crats and rebels. But tell her, as doubtless you have told her a thou-
sand times, that she is wrong; and that we are not like your French
democrats.

By September Theodosia had returned to New
York, and she wrote to her husband on the 3d
of that month:

What a pity minds could not be made sensible of each other's
approach! Wliy were we not so formed that when your thoughts,
your soul, were with your Theo, hers could be enabled, by the finest
sensation of sympathy, to meet it? How superior to writing that
would be! ... I have been all this evening devining your occupation.
Sometimes I imagine you writing or reading, and then the hope that
you are thinking of me arises. Pray, what have you been doing ? If
you can possibly recollect, let me know. After all, it is more than
probable that you have been smoking with Huger, entirely absorbed
in your society and segar.

254 THEODOSIA

How does your election advance ? I am anxious to know some-
thing of it; not from patriotism, however. It little concerns me which
party succeeds. Where you are, there is my country, and in you are
centered all my wishes. Were you a Brutus, I should be a Roman.
But were you a Caesar, I should only wish glory to Rome that glory
might be yours. As long as you love me, I am nothing on earth but
your wife and your friend, contented and proud to be that.

Mr. McPherson is much better. He sits up — I mean out of bed,
a great part of the day. He has grown sentimental. He caught a
moscheto (mosquito) the other day and kept it under a tumbler to
meditate on, because it reminded him of Carolina, and consequently

of Miss . What man under heaven ever before discovered an

analogy between a moscheto and his mistress ? I am very happy that
you have chosen chess for your amusement. It keeps you constantly
in mind how poor kings fare without their queens. Our little one
has been very amiable to-day.

On the 8th of August, Colonel Burr wrote to
his daughter from New York.

With extreme reluctance, madame, I am constrained to resign to
Dr. Brown the honor of escorting you hither. The circumstances
which have led to this measure are briefly noted in a letter which I have
this day written you by the mail.

By Tuesday, the 9th inst., I shall be settled at Richmond Hill,
ready to receive you and your incumbrances. Tell Mr. and Mrs. Alston
that I hope there to have the pleasure of accommodating them more
to their satisfaction than was in my power in the little mansion in
Broadway. . . .

I recommend to you to go around by Stockbridge to see Binney.
You will also see there your great-uncle Edwards. But this is left
to your discretion. . . . We are all in the bustle of moving. Hejghho!
for Richmond Hill. WTiat a pity you were not here, you do so love
a bustle; and then you and the brat and the maid would add so charm-
ingly to the confusion.

A month later Colonel Burr wrote to Colonel Alston:

The debility and loss of appetite which your wife has experienced,
alarmed me; yet I was totally ignorant of the cause. ... It is most
unfortunate that she left the Springs. WTiile she was there, either by

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 255

means of the air or water, or perhaps both, she had got quite rid of the
complaint, and there is no doubt but that, had she remained there a fort-
night longer, the cure would have been radical. . . . There is nothing
in this disorder which immediately threatens life; nor is it, at present,
attended with pain ; but if it should become fixed upon her, of which
there is danger unless speedily cured, it will unfit her for every duty
and every enjoyment in life.

On the 30th of September, Theodosia wrote to
her husband from New York:

Another mail has arrived, but to your Theo it has brought only
unhappiness. It is now a week since I received your last letter. You
are ill. You have been imprudent and all my fears are f ulfilled. With-
out anyone near to feel for you, to attend you, to watch every change,
and share every pain. Your wife only could do that. It is her whose
soul clings to yours and vibrates but in harmony with it; whose happi-
ness, whose every emotion, more than entirely dependent on yours,
are exchanged for them. ... I know you have friends with you; but
when you lose your vivacity, and your society is robbed of its usual
charms, they will find your chamber dull, and leave it for some more
amusing place. They cannot, like your little Theo, hang over you in
your sleep, and, with a beating heart, listen to every groan and tremble
at every noise. Your son, too, were we with you, would charm away
your cares. His smiles could not fail to sooth any pain. They possess
a magic which you cannot perceive till you see him. Would we were
with you, my beloved. I am miserable without you.

Just a month later, on October 30, she wrote
to him again:

I have now abandoned all hope of recovery. I do not say it in a
moment of depression, but with all my reason about me. I am en-
deavoring to resign myself with cheerfulness; and you also, my hus-
band, must summon up your fortitude to bear with a sick wife the
rest of her life. At present my general health is very good; indeed,
my appearance so perfectly announces it, that physicians smile at the
idea of my being an invalid. The great misfortune of this complaint
is that one may vegetate forty years in a sort of middle state between
life and death, without the enjoyment of one or the rest of the other.

256 THEODOSIA

You will now see your boy within a few days and you will really be
very much pleased with him. He is a sweet little rascal. If Heaven
grant him but to live, I shall never repent what he has cost me.

Two weeks previous, or on the 15th of Oc-
tober, Colonel Burr wrote to his son-in-law:

In my letter of yesterday I said nothing of your son. He is well,
and growing as you could wish. If I can see without prejudice, there
never was a finer boy.

Of yourself, I have a good deal to say; more than I can find time to
write and some things which cannot be written. . . . From your com-
panions I presume little is to be gained save the pastime of a social
hour. Yet time goes on and you have much to do. ... I was quite
shocked with your wan appearance when I first met you last spring.
How different from that the fall preceding. With every advantage
attainable in your climate, you have scarcely been free from fever
during the season. This cannot fail to debilitate both mind and
body. . . . The mountains, a more Northern latitude, or the grave
must be your refuge. . . . Here you may freeze out all your " miasmata"
and surplus bile in ten days, and go to Columbia with nerves well
strung and blood well purified.

Colonel Burr wrote to his son-in-law again on
the 5th of November:

The cold weather of the last ten days has had a happy effect on
Theodosia. She is so far restored that I can with confidence assure
you that she will return in health. The boy, too, grows fat and rosy
with the frost. . . . When you shall see her and son, you will not
regret the five months' separation.

Theodosia and her boy reached home safely, and
her father wrote her on the 4th of December :

So you arrived on the 24th, after a passage of ten days; you and the
Charleston packet on the same day. All this I learned last night;
but not from you. Vanderlyn and I drank a bottle of champagne on
the occasion. . . .

Vanderlyn has finished your picture in the most beautiful style

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 257

imaginable. When it was done, he exclaimed with enthusiasm : "There
is the best work I have ever done in America."

Your letter must be addressed to Washington. The dear little boy,
I hope, made a good sailor.

Burr wrote to his daughter again on the IGtli
of December:

Your letter of the 26th came yesterday, that of the 25th the day
preceding. . . . Had it not been for the intelligence by water of your
safe arrival, we should have concluded that you and Kate (her cousin,
Catharine Brown, daughter of Dr. Joseph Brown) were now dancing
with Amphitrite. How jealous her majesty would have been at the
presence of two such rivals. . . .

Vanderlyn projects to visit Charleston, but I am sure he will not.
He is run down with applications for portraits, all of which, without
discrimination, he refuses. He is greatly occupied in finishing his
Niagara views, which, indeed, will do him honor. They will be four
in number, and he thinks of having them engraved in France. You
hear the roaring of the cataract when you look at them. Kiss the
dear little boy.

Theodosia wrote from Clifton on the 17th of
March, 1803:

I have been quite ill; till within two or three days totally unable to
write. The whole family, as well as myself, had begun to think pretty
seriously of my last journey; but, fortunately, I have had the pleasure
of keeping them up a few nights, and drawing forth all their sensi-
bility, without giving them the trouble of burying, mourning, etc.
My husband is well, and the boy charming.

Colonel Burr wrote from Philadelphia, on the
3d of June:

You are the most spiritless young person I ever knew. Pray muster
up energy enough to do something more than lounge on sofas. Go on
Sunday to Ludlow's. Ask some of your friends often to dine with
you.

258 THEODOSIA

There is a little boy right opposite my window who has something
of the way of "mammy's treasure." Don't be jealous; not half so
handsome. I have had him over to my room, and have already taught
him to bang.

On the 16th of June, 1803, Colonel Burr wrote
to his daughter from Philadelphia. At that time
Theodosia was in New York. She had written
her father: "You must be home for my birthday
(the 20th inst.) or I'll never forgive you; or rather,
I shall not spend it pleasantly.'1 Colonel Burr in
his reply said: "The birthday must be kept. It
shall be 'honoured with my presence.' You will
therefore make your preparations and, among other
articles for your feast or party, I recommend two
fiddlers, not barbacued or roasted, but true to life."

A month later Theodosia was at Ballston Spa,
and wrote to Colonel Burr:

Behold us, father, dear, at this fountain of health; and now my only
wish is to leave it as soon as possible. . . . We have been very fortu-
nate in getting a house entirely to ourselves, and one quite as pleasantly
situated as that you mentioned. Mr. Walton has been extremely
polite to us. WTe dined there on Monday and in the evening went to
a ball, which surpassed my expectations in brilliancy. I danced twice,
but I am unable to tell you whether I looked well or danced well; for
you are the only person in the world who says anything to me about
my appearance. My husband generally looks well pleased, but rarely
makes remarks. . . .

The boy is pretty well, but I confess I have many doubts as to the
healthiness of this place for children. Every morning since our arrival
there has been a thick mist, which the sun does not disperse till nine
or ten o'clock. I kiss you with all my heart.

The yellow fever was in New York in August:
1803. Burr wrote to Theodosia on the 8th inst.

Your amiable letter of the 1st inst. has not yd come to hand, and

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 259

therefore cannot yet be acknowledged; perhaps it has not yd been
written.

Indeed, we are about to be scourged with a plague called yellow
fever. John Bard dead; but to keep the account good, Billy B. has
twins (boys). Catharine Church Cruger (Mrs. Peter C.) has a son.
But of the deaths. We die reasonably fast. Six or eight new co
reported yesterday. Of those who take the fever, three-fourths die.
The coffee-house was, nevertheless, pretty well attended. No appear-
ances of alarm until to-day. Several families have removed from tl:<-
neighborhood of the Tontine Coffee-house, and five times the number
will remove to-morrow.

Theodosia wrote from Washington on the 16th
of October:

We arrived here yesterday somewhat fatigued. I was, however,
very happy to find myself at Washington, for we had, in the morning,
been near taking quite a different route. Some part of our harness
having broken on the top of a pretty long descent, fortunately the
leaders were frightened by the wheel horses crowding on them; and,
running aside, one got his leg over the pole and was stopped, or you
would not have had the pleasure of receiving this interesting scribleriad,
and the poor world would have been deprived of the heir-apparent to
all its admiration and glory. ... I bear travelling remarkably well.
Headaches have disappeared and my appetite increases; but poor little
Gampy (her son's nickname; a perversion of "grandpa") does not
like the confinement of the carriage.

Theodosia did not bear traveling so well five
days later, when she wrote from Petersburgh:

We reached here last night without any accident or even incident,
but with great fatigue. Mr. Alston appears so distressed and worn
out with the child's fretting, that it returns on me with redoubled
force. ... I confess I feel myself growing quite cross on the journey,
and it is really to be feared that unless we finish soon the serene tran-
quillity of my placid temper may be injured. . . .

The boy has perfectly recovered. He remembers you astonish-
ingly. He is constantly repeating that you are gone and calling after

260 THEODOSIA

you. When I told him to call Mr. Alston grandfather, "Grandfather
gone," says he.

A week later, on October 29, Theodosia had
reached Lumberton, South Carolina.

Thank Heaven, my dear father, I am at Lumberton, and within a
few days of rest. I am sick, fatigued, out of patience and on the very
brink of being out of temper. Judge, therefore, if I am not in great
need of repose. What conduces to render the journey unpleasant is
that it frets the boy, who has acquired two jaw teeth since he left you
and still talks of Gampy.

On November 7, Colonel Burr wrote from New
York :

All is sold, and well sold; not all, however. The house, outhouses,
and some three or four acres remain. Enough to keep up the appear-
ance, and all the pleasant recollections of your infantine days, and
some of your matronly days also, are reserved with interest. This
weighty business, however, is completed, and a huge weight is taken
from the head and shoulders, and every other part, animal and intel-
lectual, of A. B. ...

If little Gamp could read, I should write to him volumes. I find my
thoughts straying to him every hour in the day, and think more of him
twenty fold than of you two together.

Another letter to Theodosia, from Washington,
December 4, reads:

The manner of your letters pleases me "prodigiously." There is
ease, good sense, and sprightliness. That from Petersburgh merits
still higher encomium. Tell dear little Gampy that I have read over
his letters a great many times, and with great admiration. Mrs.
Law, to whom I showed it, thinks it a production of genius. . . .

Pray take immediately in hand some book that requires attention
and study. You will, I fear, lose the habit of study, which would be
a greater misfortune than to lose your head.

Theodosia was happy when she wrote from Clif-
ton on December 1, 1803:

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 261

My health is infinitely improved, and I attribute it to nothing but
the continual bustle I have been in for three weeks past. What a
charming thing a bustle is. Oh, dear, delightful confusion. It gives
a circulation to the blood, an activity to the mind, and a spring to the
spirits.

On the 27th of December, 1803, Colonel Burr
wrote to his daughter from Washington:

Your letter written on your return from seeing Nathalie, is received.
You are a dear good little girl to write me so ; and of dear little Gampy ,
too, so much, yet never enough. God bless thee.

On the 10th of December, 1803, Theodosia wrote
to her father from Clifton:

I found Nathalie delighted to see me, and still pretty. She has
grown thinner; much thinner, but her complexion is still good, though
more languid. The loss of her hair is, however, an alteration for the
worse. Her crop is pretty, but not half so much so as her fine brown
hair. I write you all these foolish little particulars, because you enter
into them all; or, rather, are sensible of all their importance to us.
Nathalie has a lovely little daughter called after her. . . .

Men are indubitably born monkeys. Gampy imitates me in every-
thing I do, and to-day I had a lesson not to be forgotten. He was
playing in my room while I was dressing; quite at the commencement
of my toilet, in fact, en desabille, I ran out in the entry to call my maid;
while engaged in that operation I turned round and saw my brother's
door opening within a few yards of me; girllike, or rather baby like, I
ran to my room, threw the door openly violently, and uttering a scream,
was at the other end of it in one jump. The boy, who was busily
engaged in eating mint drops, no sooner heard me scream and appear
frightened, than he yelled most loudly, and, running to me, caught my
clothes, clenched his fists, and appeared really alarmed for two minutes.
It was not affectation. Do you think this trait ominous of a coward ?
You know my abhorrence and contempt for those animals. Really,
I have been uneasy ever since it happened. You see, I follow your
injunction to the letter. How do you like this essay ? Have you had
enough of Gampy now ?

On January 4, 1804, Colonel Burr wrote to his

262 THEODOSIA

daughter from Washington: This is only to as-
sure you that I am in perfect health; that Gen-
eral Jackson is my good friend; that I have had no
duel nor quarrel with anybody, and have not b£en
wounded or hurt."

The next day he wrote: 'How could I forget
to tell you the very important event of the mar-
riage of Jerome Bonaparte to Miss Patterson? It
took place on Saturday, the 24th ult. Mrs. Caton
approves of this match, and therefore A. B. does,
for he greatly respects the opinions of Mrs. Caton."

Colonel Burr's grandson was evidently con-
stantly in his mind. On January 17, 1804, he
wrote from Washington:

Of the boy you never say enough. Nothing about his French in
your last. I hope you talk to him much in French, and Eleonore
always. . . .

Madame Bonaparte passed a week here. She is a charming little
woman; just the size and nearly the figure of Theodosia Burr Alston;
by some thought a little like her; perhaps not so well in the shoulders;
dresses with taste and simplicity (by some thought too free) ; has sense,
and spirit, and sprightliness. . . .

I want a French translation of the Constitution of the United States,
and, for the purpose, send you a copy in English. It will, I fear, be a
great labor to you; but I cannot get it done here, and it may not be
useless to you to burnish up your French a little. . . .

You do not say whether the boy knows his letters. I am sure he
may now be taught them, and then put a pen into his hand and set him
to imitate them. He may read and write before he is three years old.
This, with speaking French, would make him a tolerably accomplished
lad of that age, and worthy of his blood.

Burr was undoubtedly interested in Washington
Irving. On January 29 he wrote from Wash-
ington to Theodosia:

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 263

There is no end to the trouble such a baggage gives me. Another
thing occurs which, forsooth, must be sent to her too. It would not,
perhaps, merit so high an honor as that of being perused by your . . .
eyes and touched by your fair hands, but that it is the production of a
youth (Washington Irving), of about nineteen, the youngest brother
of Dr. Peter Irving, of New York.

Colonel Burr was wrong in stating the age of
Washington Irving, who really was fourteen months
older than Theodosia.

On April 3, 1804, Colonel Burr wrote from New
York to Theodosia:

I hasten to acknowledge your long, interesting, and beautiful letter
of the 14th. It is received this morning, and finds me in the midst
of occupations connected with the approaching election. Of course,
every minute, interruptions. . . . You improve greatly in your style
and manner of writing. A little more pains and a little more reading,
and you will exceed Lady Mary W. Montague. Practice, however,
is indispensable. The art of writing is an acquirement, as much as
music or dancing. ... As you have a great taste for mischief, I send
you a new paper (The Corrector, by Toby Tickler) established in this
city, by whom edited unknown. Some of the numbers are allowed to
have wit. Whether these have any I know not. God bless thee.

On April 25, 1804, he invited Theodosia and
her husband to come to New York.

You take Richmond Hill; bring no horse nor carriage. I have got
a nice, new, beautiful little chariot, very light, on an entirely new con-
struction, invented by the Vice-president. Now, these two machines
are severally adapted to two horses, and you may take your choice
of them. Of horses, I have five; three always and wholly at your devo-
tion, and the whole five occasionally. Harry and Sam are both good
coachmen, either at your orders. Of servants, there are enough for
family purposes. Eleonore, however, must attend you, for the sake
of the heir apparent. You will want no others, as there are at my house
Peggy, Nancy, and a girl of about eleven. Mr. Alston may bring a
footman. Anything further will be useless; he may, however, bring

264 THEODOSIA

six or eio-ht of them if he like. The cellars and garrets are well stocked
with wine, having had a great supply last fall. I shall take rooms (a
house, etc.) in town, but will live with you as much or as little as you
may please and as we can agree; but my establishment at Richmond
Hill must remain, whether you come or not.

In his letter of May 1 he referred again to his
grandson: "Of the boy you have been remarkably
reserved in your last two letters. I conclude, how-
ever, that he cannot be dead, as you would, prob-
ably, have thought that circumstance worthy of
being mentioned; at least in a postscript. Now,
Nathalie has written me a whole page about her
girl, for which I am very grateful."

Still more about his grandson in his letter of
June 11:

The letter of A. B. A. at the foot of yours, was far the most inter-
esting. I have studied every pothook and trammel of his first literary
performance to see what rays of genius could be discovered. You
remember our friend Schweitzer, nephew and pupil of Lavater. He
used to insist that as much was to be inferred from the handwriting
as from the face. I showed him a letter from, a man of great fame and
he saw genius in every stroke. I then produced a letter from an arrant
blockhead and great knave, but so like the other as not to be distin-
guished, at least by my unphysiognomical discernment. He acknowl-
edged that there was a resemblance to an ignorant eye, but, said he,
triumphantly, this (latter) could never have made that scratch, which
sybilistic scratch was the mere prolongation of the last letter of the
last word in a sentence. Now it occurs to me that one of A. B. A.'s
scratches is exactly in the line of genius, according to Schweitzer;
and surely more may be presumed from the instinctive effort of un-
tutored infancy than from the labored essay of scientific cultivation.
To aid your observation in this line, I pray you to read Martinus
Scriblerius.

A still further reference to his grandson occurs
in Colonel Burr's letter of June 24:

HER COURTSHIP AND MARRIED LIFE 265

I do not like the boy looking pale so early in the season. It argues
ill; but I like much his heroism and gallantry. You cannot think how
much these little details amuse and interest me. If you were quite
mistress of natural philosophy, he would now be acquiring a knowl-
edge of various branches, particularly natural history, botany and
chymistry. Pursue these studies and also that of language. For
fifty dollars you may get, in Philadelphia, a chymical apparatus, put
up in a small box, with which more than one hundred experiments
may be tried.

On the 1st of July, 1804, Colonel Burr wrote
to his daughter:

Haying been shivering with cold all day, though in perfect health,
I have now, just at sunset, had a fire in my library, and am sitting
near it and enjoying it, if that word be applicable to anything done
in solitude. Some very wise man, however, has exclaimed,

"Oh, fools, who think it solitude to be alone."

With this letter closed the correspondence be-
tween father and daughter, which had continued
through three years of her married life. As Burr
sat in his library that day alone, he may have had
a premonition of the future. Ex-Governor George
Clinton had been elected to succeed him as Vice-
president. He had failed to secure an election
as Governor of New York, and his political war-
fare was over, for a time at least. On the 17th
of the preceding month, he had written to
Judge Van Ness, requesting him to call upon
him the following morning, on the 18th. The
first letter to Hamilton had been written two days
later. On the 3d of July Mr. Van Ness paid
another visit to Mr. Pendleton; and after a few
subsequent interviews, the time when the parties
were to meet was ultimately fixed upon for the

266 THEODOSIA

morning of the llth of July. It is sure, then,
that when Burr sat in his library "shivering with
cold' on the first day of July, that he was aware
of the impending meeting. But he said nothing
of it in his letter to his daughter. Within a fort-
night from the date of that letter, Theodosia was
to meet with the first great affliction of her young
life.

CHAPTER XII

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS

THREE years of happy, wedded life to be fol-
lowed by three times that of sorrow, grief,
almost despair, and, finally, death in a strange manner
among strangers. If the hand of Fate could have
warned her to leave the South and stay with her
father, what a parting of the ways there would
have been. One road led to happiness and long
life. Her husband would have followed her, for
he loved her more than wealth or fame. The road
she took - - we all know how devious was the way
and how dark the night that closed in upon those
she loved, and, at last, upon herself.

Within eight years there came to her five great
afflictions . One such would have unnerved an
ordinary woman, but her teacher had made her
a combination of velvet and steel. This deft inter-
lacing of womanly sweetness of heart with manly
hardihood of soul carried her through all her trials

- to the supreme one ; how she bore that, no mor-
tal voice has ever told, but we are sure it must have
been with the faith of a Christian and the bravery
of a Spartan.

Let us then accompany her through her five vales
of trouble — a journey pitiful and sorrowful, but
enlivened by such displays of wifely affection,

267

268 THEODOSIA

motherly tenderness, and filial love, that the story
becomes almost entrancing from the human sym-
pathy that it evokes in the reader. Many pens have
written the story of her self-abnegation. With
these as a guide and inspiration, the hand that
writes it again must not falter nor fail.

Her father's duel with Hamilton, followed so
quickly by his political and social ostracism; her
own physical condition which led her to write the
pathetic letter of farewell to her husband and son;
her father's arrest for treason, and the nerve and
soul tension of the trial at Richmond; her father's
exile in Europe, beyond the reach of her love or
assistance; and the early death of her cherished
boy, were the great afflictions of her young life.

Theodosia was proud, and, like her father, not
inclined to show the white feather to either friends
or enemies. Husband and father, however, were
within a charmed circle, and to them her heart
could speak. What she said to her husband no
one knows, but in her letters to her father are found
suspense, anxiety, fear, sometimes almost despair,
to which he returned strenuous commands to pre-
serve her self-possession and not betray her inward
feelings to the world.

It seems almost incomprehensible that Burr could
sit in his library when he knew that the meeting
with Hamilton was imminent, and yet write his
daughter a commonplace letter about some books
being wrongly shipped from London, adding there-
to a few bits of New York gossip about ladies of
prominence or fashion who were, presumably,
known to Theodosia. And yet, a father's love may

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 269

have prompted this reticence. He knew her dis-
position, and to tell her that he was to imperil his
life, and then doom her to three weeks' suspense
before she could know the outcome of the affair,
was an unnecessary cruelty. So his letter, written
the evening before the duel, was a farewell to her,
and to earth. He had not credited his coming
antagonist with so much generosity and magna-
nimity as to suppose that he would offer himself
as a target and forfeit his rights as a principal.
Burr had every reason to think that his life was in
danger, but he broke the news to his daughter as
calmly as though he contemplated a trip to her
Southern home.

In his letter to his daughter he did not mention
the duel. In that to his son-in-law at the close
he said simply; "I have called out General Ham-
ilton and we meet to-morrow morning. Van Ness
will give you the particulars. The preceding has
been written in contemplation of this event. If
it shall be my lot to fall, yet I shall live in you and
your son. I commit to you all that is most dear
to me - — my reputation and my daughter. Your
talents and your attachment will be the guardian
of the one - - your kindness and your generosity
of the other."

Who can see in this, bravado, or a revengeful
spirit? If he had felt it, would not he, his last
night on earth, perhaps, have expressed it to one
so near and dear to him ? Smarting with his
wrongs, would he not, for once, have attempted
self -justification ? He wrote like a gentleman -
no hint of premeditated murder - — no threat of

270 THEODOSIA

assassination — in a meeting conducted according
to the code duello in force at the time. The duel
took place on July 11, 1804.

Parton (81) thus refers to Theodosia's state of
mind after the duel: ;The next news Theodosia
received from her father was that he was a fugi-
tive from the sudden abhorrence of his fellow-cit-
izens; that an indictment for murder was hanging
over his head; that his career in New York was,
in all probability, over forever; and that he was
destined to be, for a time, a wanderer on the earth.
Her happy days were at an end. She never blamed
her father for this, or for any act of his; on the
contrary, she accepted, without questioning, his own
version of the facts, and his own view of the mo-
rality of what he had done. He had formed her
mind and tutored her conscience. He was her
conscience. But though she censured him not,
her days and nights were embittered by anxiety
from this time to the last day of her life."

While we must agree with Parton as to the anxiety
caused by her father's misfortunes, letters already
quoted from, or to be used in part, show that Theo-
dosia had a conscience of her own. It was not
her conscience that approved; it was her love that
condoned, and ever hoped for the best. Theodosia
was a creation, not a replica of her father. If she
had married Washington Irving or some North-
ern man, and had made her home with, or near,
her father, her influence and her love, combined
with his intense regard for her, would have pre-
vented the duel with Hamilton and its subsequent
mistakes and misfortunes. To doubt this would

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS

remove the confidence felt by many a woman who
has read her story that she, by her love, may re-
claim a husband or father whose path is devious.

On August 3 Burr wrote from Philadelphia
to Colonel Alston, but for his daughter's eye: "Have
no anxiety about the issue of this business.'' To
Theodosia the day preceding: 'Don't let me have
the idea that you are dissatisfied with me a mo-
ment. I can't just now endure it. At another
time you may play the Juno if you please.'1 To
Theodosia on August 3: You will find the
papers filled with all manner of nonsense and lies.
Among other things, accounts of attempts to assas-
sinate me. These, I assure you, are mere fables.
Those who wish me dead prefer to keep at a very
respectful distance.'5

On September 15 he wrote from St. Simon's:
"It will compel me to abandon the hope of seeing
you until the last of February. On this, as on all
other occasions, let me find that you exhibit the
firmness which I have been proud to ascribe to
you."

In October, 1804, Burr met his daughter and
son-in-law. By the 23d he had reached Fayette-
ville on his way to Washington to preside over the
Senate in December.

On October 31 he wrote Theodosia: "How faith-
fully I return you the paper which you lent me at
Statesburgh. This is the last sheet, and I think
you will have received back all but one of them.':

Despite the brightness, almost levity, of Burr's
letters at this time, it is evident that his daughter
was not wholly convinced, or he would not have

THEODOSIA

written her: :You treat with too much gravity
the New Jersey affair (an indictment for murder).
It should be considered as a farce, and you will
yet see it terminated so as to leave only ridicule
and contempt to its abettors.'1

Theodosia was still uneasy in her mind as re-
garded her father's safety from prosecution. On
March 10, 1805, he wrote, from Washington, the
session of Congress having closed: Your anxi-
eties about me evince a sort of sickly sensibility
which indicates that you are not well. I fear that
you are suffering a debility, arising from climate
or other cause, which affects both mind and body.
When you are in health you have no sort of solic-
itude or apprehension about me; you confide that,
under any circumstances, I am able to fulfil your
expectations and your wishes. Resume, I pray
you, this confidence, so flattering to me, so consol-
ing to yourself, may I add, so justly founded.'1

No doubt his daughter's ill-health was the result
of her anxiety and her fears for her father's safety.
Still in Philadelphia, he wrote, on April 10: "I
rejoice that your nerves are in better tone, for truly,
in some of your letters, I could scarcely recognize
my daughter.'1

On April 30, Burr was at Pittsburgh, making
ready for his Western and Southern trip. He thus
described his boat or "ark": "My boat is, prop-
erly speaking, a floating house, sixty feet by
fourteen, containing dining-room, kitchen with fire-
place, and two bedrooms, roofed from stern to
stern; steps to go up and a walk on the top the
whole length; glass windows, etc. This edifice cost

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 273

me one hundred and thirty-three dollars, and how
it can be made for that sum passes my compre-
hension."

His trip took six months, during which time he
visited Wheeling (now in West Virginia), Marietta
and Cincinnati (Ohio), Lexington (Kentucky),
Nashville (Tennessee), Natchez (Mississippi), and
New Orleans (Louisiana). On his return trip
he again visited Nashville and remained a week with
General Jackson. Thence to Louisiana and St.
Louis; then east again to Berkeley Springs, which
he reached on October 20, where he expected to
meet his daughter and her husband.

How was it with Theodosia during this long
absence? Her health was poor, for in a letter
written to Colonel Alston from Washington, on
November 29, Burr says: 'My solicitude about
the health of Theodosia is no way relieved by the
sort of recovery of which she advises me. The
boy, too, has a relapse of the ague, a disease of all
others the most fatal to the infant constitution.
Great God! What sacrifices do you make, and
to what end ? These solicitudes poison all my
enjoyments, and often unfit me for business. Being
apprized ... of the engagements and ties which
will prevent you, at least for some months, from
leaving South Carolina, I determine, at any sacri-
fice, to rescue Theodosia and (her) son.':

The world would never have known Theodosia's
enfeebled condition while her father was on his
travels, had not, several years after her disappear-
ance, a trunk been found in her house in South
Carolina, which contained a letter addressed as

274 THEODOSIA

follows: 'To my husband. To be delivered after
my death, and before my burial.'1

August 6, 1805.

Whether it is the effect of extreme debility and disordered nerves,
or whether it is really presentiment, the existence of which I have been
often told of, and always doubted, I cannot tell; but something whispers
me that my end approaches. In vain I reason with myself; in vain I
occupy my mind, and seek to fix my attention on other subjects; there
is about me that dreadful heaviness and sinking of the heart, that awful
foreboding, of which it is impossible to divest myself. Perhaps I am
now standing on the brink of eternity; and ere I plunge in the fearful
abyss, I have some few requests to make.

I wish your sisters (one of them, it is immaterial which) would
select from my clothes certain things which, they will easily perceive,
belonged to my mother. These, with whatever lace they find in a
large trunk in a garret-room of the Oaks house, added to a little satin-
wood box (the largest, and having a lock and key), and a black satin
embroidered box, with a pin-cushion; all these things I wish they would
put together in one trunk, and send them to Frederick with the enclosed
letter. I prefer him, for Bartow's wife would have little respect for
what, however trifling it may appear, I nevertheless deem sacred.

I beg Sister Maria will accept of my watch-ring. She will find a
locket which she gave me, containing the hair of her mother; she had
better take it. If the lace in my wardwobe at the Oaks be of any use
to Charlotte, I beg she will take it, or anything else she wishes. My
heart is with those dear amiable sisters, to give them something worth
preserving in recollection of me; but they know that a warm friendship
is all I have to give.

Return to mamma the eagle she gave me. Should an opportunity
to Catharine Brown ever occur, send her a pearl necklace, a small
diamond ring, a little pair of coral tablets, which are among my trinkets
at the Oaks. I pray you, my dear husband, send Bartow's daughter
some present for me, and to himself and Frederick a lock of my hair.
Return Nathalie the little desk she gave me, accompanied by assurances
of my affectionate recollection, and a ring of my hair. Remember
me to Sally, who is truly amiable, and whom I sincerely esteem.

I beg also you will write immediately to New York, forwarding some
money for the comfortable support of Peggy until my father can pro-

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 275

vide for her. Do not permit grief at the loss of me to render you for-
getful of this, for the poor creature may expire of want in the meantime.
I beg this may be attended to without delay.

To you, my beloved, I leave our child; the child of my bosom, who
was once a part of myself, and from whom I shall shortly be separated
by the cold grave. You love him now; henceforth love him for me
also. And oh, my husband, attend to this last prayer of a doting
mother. Never, never listen to what any other person tells you of
him. Be yourself his judge on all occasions. He has faults; see them,
and correct them yourself. Desist not an instant from your endeavors
to secure his confidence. It is a work which requires as much uni-
formity of conduct -as warmth of affection towards him. I know, my
beloved, that you can perceive what is right on this subject as on every
other. But recollect, these are the last words I can ever utter. It will
tranquillize my last moments to have disburdened myself of them.

I fear you will scarcely be able to read this scrawl, but I feel hurried
and agitated. Death is not welcome to me. I confess it is ever dreaded.
You have made me too fond of life. Adieu, then, thou kind, thou
tender husband. Adieu, friend of my heart. May heaven prosper
you, and may we meet hereafter. Adieu; perhaps we may never see
each other again in this world. You are away; I wished to hold you
fast and prevent you from going this morning. But He who is wisdom
itself ordains events; we must submit to them. Least of all should I
murmur. I, on whom so many blessings have been showered — whose
days have been numbered by bounties — who have had such a hus-
band, such a child, such a father. Oh, pardon me, my God, if I regret
leaving these. I resign myself. Adieu, once more, and for the last
time, my beloved. Speak of me often to our son. Let him love the
memory of his mother, and let him know how he was loved by her.
Your wife, your fond wife,

THEO.

Let my father see my son sometimes. Do not be unkind towards
him whom I have loved so much, I beseech you. Burn all my papers
except my father's letters, which I beg you to return to him. Adieu,
my sweet boy. Love your father; be grateful and affectionate to him
while he lives; be the pride of his meridian, the support of his depart-
ing days. Be all that he wishes; for he made your mother happy.
Oh! my heavenly Father, bless them both. If it is permitted, I will

276 THEODOSIA

hover round you, and guard you, and intercede for you. I hope for
happiness in the next world, for I have not been bad in this.

I had nearly forgotten to say that I charge you not to allow me to
be stripped and washed, as is usual. I am pure enough thus to return
to dust. Why, then, expose my person ? Pray, see to this. If it does
not appear contradictory or silly, I beg to be kept as long as possible
before I am consigned to the earth.

From January, 1806, until August in the same year,
Colonel Burr passed his time principally in Wash-
ington and Philadelphia. In August he began his
second Western tour, again visited Blennerhassett
Island, went down the Mississippi, and on the 3d of
March, 1807, was arrested by order of President
Jefferson for treason, and taken to Richmond, Vir-
ginia, for trial. We now reach the third of Theo-
dosia's great afflictions.

Burr's first letter to his daughter after his arrest
was dated Richmond, March 27, 1807.

My military escort having arrived at Fredericksburgh, on our way
to Washington, there met a special messenger with orders to convey
me to this place. Hither we came forthwith and arrived last evening.
It seems that here the business is to be tried and concluded. I am
to be surrendered to the civil authority to-morrow, when the question
of bail will be determined. In the meantime, I remain at the Eagle
tavern.

On April 26, a month later, he wrote her: Your
letters of the 10th and those preceding seemed to
indicate a sort of stupor; but now you will rise into
phrensy. Another ten days will, it is hoped, have
brought you back to reason." He added, referring,
doubtless, to one of her previous letters: "It ought
not, however, to be forgotten that the (your) letter
of the 15th was written under a paroxysm of the
toothache.'

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 277

It is not intended here to consider in any way the
trial of Colonel Burr at Richmond. That considera-
tion is reserved for another volume; in fact, will
require a volume of itself. The presentation of
Theodosia's connection with the trial is, however,
needed here, and portions of available material that
relate to her will be given briefly.

Theodosia did not reach Richmond until the end
of July. On June 24 her father wrote: "I beg and
expect it of you that you will conduct yourself as
becomes my daughter, and that you manifest no
signs of weakness or alarm."

June 30, 1807.

Of myself you could expect to hear nothing new; yet something
new and unexpected was moved yesterday. The counsel for the
prosecution proposed to the court that Aaron Burr should be sent to
the penitentiary for safe keeping, and stated that the governor and
council had offered to provide me with an apartment in the third story
of that building. This is extremely kind and obliging in the gover-
nor and his council. The distance, however, would render it so in-
convenient to my counsel to visit me, that I should prefer to remain
where I am; yet the rooms proposed are said to be airy and healthy.

July 3, 1807.

I have three rooms in the third story of the penitentiary, making
an extent of one hundred feet. My jailer is quite a polite and civil
man — altogether unlike the idea one would form of a jailer. You
would have laughed to have heard our compliments the first
evening.

Jailer: I hope, sir, it would not be disagreeable to you if I should
lock this door after dark.

Burr: By no means, sir; I should prefer it to keep out intruders.

Jailer: It is our custom, sir, to extinguish all lights at nine o'clock;
I hope, sir, you will have no objection to conform to that.

Burr: That, sir, I am sorry to say, is impossible; for I never go to
bed till twelve, and always burn two candles.

278 THEODOSIA

Jailer: Very well, sir; just as you please. I should have been
glad if it had been otherwise; but as you please, sir.

While I have been writing, different servants have arrived with
messages, notes, and inquiries, bringing oranges, lemons, pineapples,
raspberries, apricots, cream, butter, ice, and some ordinary articles.

July 6, 1807.

My friends and acquaintances of both sexes are permitted to visit
me without interruption, without inquiring their business, and with-
out the presence of a spy. It is well that I have an ante-chamber,
or I should often be gene with visitors.

If you come, I can give you a bedroom and parlour on this floor.
The bedroom has three large closets, and it is a much more com-
modious one than you ever had in your life. Remember, no agita-
tions, no complaints, no fears or anxieties on the road, or I renounce
thee.

July 24, 1807.

I want an independent and discerning witness to my conduct and
to that of the government. The scenes which have passed, and those
about to be transacted, will exceed all reasonable credibility, and
will hereafter be deemed fables, unless attested by very high authority.

I repeat what has heretofore been written, that I should never
invite anyone, much less those so dear to me, to witness my disgrace.
I may be immured in dungeons, chained, murdered in legal form,
but I cannot be humiliated or disgraced. If absent, you will suffer
great solicitude. In my presence you will feel none, whatever may
be the malice or the power of my enemies, and in both they abound.

July 30, 1807.

I am informed that some good-natured people here have provided
you a house, and furnished it, a few steps from my town house. I had
also made a temporary provision for you in my townhouse, whither I
shall remove on Sunday; but I will not, if I can possibly avoid it,
move before your arrival, having a great desire to receive you all in
this mansion. Pray, therefore, drive directly out here. You may
get admission at any time from four in the morning till ten at night.
Write me by the mail from Petersburgh, that I may know of your
approach. (On this letter is endorsed, in Theodosia's handwriting,
'' Received on our approach to Richmond. How happy it made me! ")

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 279

Parton (82) says: 'A messenger bore the news of
the acquittal to Theodosia. While her father was
insisting upon his right to a more ample vindication
at the hands of the jury, she was writing the intelli-
gence to a dear friend, the wife of one of her mother's
sons, in whose family archives it is still preserved."
Parton adds that he wras permitted to copy the part
that follows, as it related to Colonel Burr.

I have this moment received a message from court announcing to
me that the jury has brought in a verdict of acquittal, and I hasten
to inform you of it, my dear, to allay the anxiety which, with even
more than your usual sweetness, you have expressed in your letter of
the 22d of July. It afflicts me, indeed, to think that you should have
suffered so much from sympathy with the imagined state of my feel-
ings — for the knowledge of my father's innocence, my ineffable con-
tempt for his enemies, and the elevation of his mind, have kept me
above any sensations bordering on depression. Indeed, my father,
so far from accepting of sympathy, has continually animated all
around him; it was common to see his desponding friends filled with
alarm at some new occurrence, terrified with some new appearance
of danger, fly to him in search of encouragement and support, and
laughed out of their fears by the subject of them. This I have wit-
nessed every day, and it almost persuaded me that he possessed the
secret of repelling danger as well as apprehension. Since my residence
here, of which some days and a night were passed in the penitentiary,
our little family circle has been a scene of uninterrupted gayety. Thus
you see, my lovely sister, this visit has been a real party of pleasure.
From many of the first inhabitants I have received the most unremit-
ting and delicate attentions, sympathy, indeed, of any I ever experienced.

Theodosia wrote in that state of elation which
follows the removal of suspense - - accompanied by
a satisfied feeling of safety. Had the verdict been
otherwise, all her fears and forebodings would have
returned with even greater intensity. We are all
brave when the danger is past.

280 THEODOSIA

Theodosia returned home. There was now no
danger of the hangman or of imprisonment; but the
social ostracism still remained. Davis (83) thus
portrays the situation in the summer of 1808:

On the 7th of June, 1808, Colonel Burr sailed from New York on
board the British packet for England, via Halifax. The personal
and political prejudices which the influence of power and the death
of Hamilton had excited against him, rendered, as he conceived, a
temporary absence from this country desirable; and, at the same time,
believing that the political situation of Europe offered opportunities
for accomplishing the object he had long contemplated, of emanci-
pating the Spanish American Colonies from the degrading tyranny
of Spain, it was his design to solicit the aid of some European govern-
ment in such an undertaking. With these views he embarked for
England. During his residence in Europe he regularly corresponded
with his daughter, Mrs. Alston, and also kept a private diary; but
probably from the apprehension that his papers were at all times
subject to the supervision of the government police, his memoranda
are in a great measure restricted to occurrences private and personal.

In 1838 "The Private Journal of Aaron Burr,
during his Residence of Four Years in Europe, with
Selections from his Correspondence," edited by
Matthew L. Davis, was published in two volumes,
by Harper & Brothers, of New York.

Mr. Davis says in his preface:

It should also be borne in mind that the diary was intended only
as a memorandum for conversation with his daughter on his return
to America. He repeatedly mentions this in his notes. The idea of
publication, certainly never occurred to him. . . . Why, then, it may
be asked, is this Journal published? Because, unless the editor de-
ceives himself, unambitious as it is, it will answer the reader; because
it illustrates the character of a distinguished man, whose influence
has been felt in his country's fortunes, and whose name will live in
her history; and because the character illustrated is amiable, interest-
ing, and not without instruction to the observer. This man of dark

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 281

intrigue and remorseless design, as it has pleased politicians and
reviewers, clerical and lay, to represent him, is here shown in an artless
autobiographic narrative, which could not be feigned, to have been
one of the most amiable and playful of men; like the little children
whom he so remarkably and characteristically loved, he was pleased
with the slightest incidents, lively and happy in the humblest circum-
stances, and incapable of harbouring a lasting resentment.

In preparing the Journal for press, Mr. Davis
omitted many pages, took great liberties with the
text, and made many incorrect translations of foreign
words which Burr used liberally. The original
manuscript became the property of Mr. W. K.
Bixby, of St. Louis, a noted patron of letters and an
ardent bibliophile, and he decided to issue an un-
expur gated edition, which was published in 1903, in
two volumes. The title page reads: 'The Private
Journal of Aaron Burr, Reprinted in full from the
Original Manuscript in the Library of W. K. Bixby,
of St. Louis, Missouri, with an Introduction, Ex-
planatory Notes, and a Glossary." The edition of
250 copies was printed at Rochester, New York, and
the plates destroyed. The work was for private
distribution only, no copies being sold. The copy
in the possession of the writer, being a gift from Mr.
Bixby, is Number 7. In the year 1906 a copy was
sold at auction in New York and brought $154.00.
In the present year, (1907), a second copy was sold
at auction in New York City for $144.00. No
reasons were given for these sales of a gift but
presumably one or both formed part of the library of
some person deceased.

Theodosia's fourth great affliction washer father 's-
in some degree voluntary but in other respects en-

282 THEODOSIA

forced — exile from his native land. The Davis
edition has letters interpolated throughout, the
greater part being between father and daughter, and
it is from these, principally, that extracts will be
made, in order to show Theodosia's physical and
mental condition during her father's prolonged
absence. Burr's last interview with his daughter
was at the house of a Mrs. Pollock, on the evening
of his embarkation. They never again met. : Went
on board the pilot boat at 11 A.M., June 7, 1808; on
the 8th, at 3 P.M., anchored between the Narrows
and Sandy Hook; at 7 P.M., on June 9, set sail," are
the entries in his Journal. Burr travelled incognito
as "Mr. G. H. Edwards," and Theodosia was known
as "Mary Ann Edwards.''

Colonel Burr wrrote many letters to his daughter
before the vessel sailed, she being in New York, and
he in the immediate vicinity, but with no clue given
as to his exact location. This precaution was taken
to avoid arrest.

His first thought wTas of his daughter's health:

The affliction of the nerves arises wholly from the
disease, and can only be cured by removing those
diseases. All nervous medicines, unless for mo-
mentary relief, are quackery and nonsense. The
spring waters of Ballston or Saratoga are the best;
the only tonic that performs at once the double cure."

To his incognito he added still further mystery:
'My letters to you will be often in a strange hand-
writing, and with various signatures."

Theodosia bore up bravely: "There is dignity and
fortitude in your letter. Need it be added that I am
charmed with it?"

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 283

He continued his instructions in letter-writing:
44 Always have before you the letters you are about
to answer, read them over before you begin, and
make short notes of the heads requiring a reply."

There was a 'scene' at parting: ;The transition
was fortunate, and the new location made under
good auspices, but the moment of separation was
embittered by tears and reproaches, to which, unfor-
tunately, your page was a witness."

But this was not the last meeting: 'It does not
appear to me that we can conveniently meet this
evening, but certainly one whole night before sep-
aration. Make haste, in the meantime, to gather
strength for the occasion. Your efforts on the late
one were wonderful. God grant that they may not
have wholly exhausted you.'5

Theodosia wrote from Ballston, June 21, 1808:
"This is the commencement of my 26th year. . . .
We were alarmed with a report that you had been
taken by the French, but it was immediately contra-
dicted." To encourage her father, she wrote:
"Never were hopes brighter than mine. To look
on the gloomy side would be death to me, and with-
out reserve I abandon myself to all the gay security
of a sanguine temper." And then follows a heart
touch: "Ah, if I had but you to nurse me! How
good the tea was that you made. How tenderly
were all my wishes anticipated, every inconvenience
prevented." Then, thinking that her father might
consider this as repining, she added: "But do not
imagine that my spirits are low, so that I am so weak
as to wish you back."

On July 26 Burr went by stage to Weybridge,

284 THEODOSIA

England, to see Mrs. Prevost, a relative of his
wife.

On August 11 he received an invitation from
Jeremy Bentham to pass several days with him.
Burr took with him a portrait of his daughter, and it
was his companion during his four years of exile.
He showed it to Bentham, who remarked: "Dear
little creature. Let her take care."

In a letter to Bentham (September 7, 1808), he
wrote: "I engage to defend you penna et pugnis,
against Dumont's gods ; and if, as is to be expected, I
should take my flight before you, Theodosia shall do
it for me (not pugnis). How her little heart will
swell with pride when she shall receive your message
with the combustibles (Bentham's books). If some
one of them could be addressed to her with your own
hand, it would descend in the family like an heir-
loom.'3

In a letter to his daughter (September 8, 1808) he
referred to a Mrs. Achaud, a niece of the late Colonel
Prevost, and first cousin to Frederic (Augustine
James Frederic Prevost) who was one of Theodosia's
step-brothers.

That Theodosia was not always 'cheerful," and
did not always abandon herself 'to all the gay
security of a sanguine temper," is shown by her
letter of September 30, 1808, written from Pelham,
New York : * ' Not one word from you has reached me
since those few lines from the first stage. I did not
expect to have remained thus long in this painful
suspense. There are a thousand vague reports
about you. ... I write without pleasure, and only,
indeed, to satisfy my desire of seizing every oppor-

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 285

tunity to gratify you, even though I should have only
one chance of success in a million. Except myself,
all your friends are well. But the world begins to
cool terribly around me. You would be surprised
how many I supposed attached to me have aban-
doned the sorry, losing game of disinterested friend-
ship. Frederic, alone, however, is worth a host."

Burr wrote from London (October 24, 1808) :
"The arrival of the packet has brought me your
letter of the 3d September. It is a deadly blow to
my hopes. Some great, some immediate and violent
change must be made in your habits. A sea voyage
and a climate wholly different would promise much/1

He had consulted physicians about her complaint
and they declared her case curable. He promised
to send her their advice by the next packet. He
then became humorous: To fill up this blank page
(I) take one of the many epigrams on Sir Hew Dai-
ry mple. It was made impromptu by one of my
friends in my presence.

When knights of old their falchions drew,
Their mot de guerre was Hack and Hew;
One modern knight, of fighting shy,
Should make his motto Hew and Cry.

"The following ridiculous epitaph made me laugh.
If it raise a smile on the wan cheek of my Theodosia,
I should deem it valuable indeed. The subject of it,
who is more famed for his wealth and his long ser-
vices in the corporation than for classic education, is
in the habit, as is said, like our worthy Vice-presi-
dent, of using this-ere and that-are, as, Exigra: Take
this-here knife and cut thai-there goose. The epi-
taph was produced at a feast at which he was present,

286 THEODOSIA

and the story adds that he joined in the laugh with
great good humour.

Here lies WILLIAM CURTIS, our late worthy lord-mayor,
Who has left this-here world and gone to thai-there"

Separated, as Theodosia was from her father,
hearing from him only at long intervals, it is no
wonder that she was in a constant state of anxiety as
to his movements and his prospects. This is shown
forcibly in a letter written by her from New York
(October 31, 1808).

I presume that when you last wrote me, none of your plans could
be matured; but as soon as you have formed any determinations, I
conjure you to inform me of them as soon as possible. I know that
entreaty is not necessary. I am too proud of your confidence to
affect a doubt of it; but my mind is anxious, impatiently anxious in
regard to your future destiny. WThere you are going, what will occupy
you, how this will terminate, employ me continually; and when, for-
getful of myself, my brain is busy with a multitude of projects, my
poor little heart cries out — and when shall we meet ? You, or rather
circumstances, have deprived me of my greatest support during your
absence. . . . Oh, my guardian angel, why were you obliged to
abandon me just when enfeebled nature doubly required your care?
Alas, alas, how often have I deplored the want of your counsel and
tenderness! How often, when my tongue and hands trembled with
disease, have I besought Heaven either to reunite us or let me die
at once! Yet do not hence imagine1 that I yield to infantine lamenta-
tions or impatience. As soon as relief from pain restored me in some
measure to myself, I became more worthy the happiness of being
your daughter.

When Burr left the United States, he placed in his
daughter's hands certain notes or accounts from
which he expected to receive a large sum of money.
His daughter was unable to collect the money due,
and therefore could not send it to him. Her health

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 287

was still poor, but that did not cause her so much
concern as the fact that her father was in a foreign
country without financial resources. She wrote to
him from New York, January 3, 1809:

Nothing can exceed the anxiety your pecuniary concern has given
me; but as yet the money has not been paid. I hope and believe it
will be received at length; but it distresses me beyond measure that
nothing can be remitted to you immediately. Your situation in a
foreign country, without any pursuit, renders me doubly solicitous on
the subject. The instant anything satisfactory is done, you shall
profit by it without any loss of time, be assured; for my heart feels
what you suffer more severely than its own afflictions. . . . Do not
be unhappy about me. Irving (Dr. Peter Irving) will tell you that
I am quite plump — ill as this seems to accord with my hysterics and
the obstinacy of my complaint.

Theodosia had a surplusage of medical treatment.
She not only took preparations prepared by "Dr.
Hosack' and 'Eustis," but her father had sent her
prescriptions from England to be tried. She was of
the opinion that what good health she did have came
from a naturally good constitution rather than from
the use of the medicines. She decided to try the
Ballston waters again, and wrote from New York,
February 1, 1809:

I have tried the Ballston waters to-day, notwithstanding the inter-
diction, and you will have some idea of the alteration in my habit
when I tell you that one small tumbler and a half gave me a slow
fever, pain in the back, burning, and every sensation of approaching
relief. They were drank, too, at the interval of some hours. I ivill
not take any more mercury. It renders abortive the advantages of
climate, ruins my teeth, and will destroy my constitution. There is
little doubt in my mind that perfect health will soon return.

Burr had written voluminously to his daughter
concerning his acquaintanceship with Jeremy Ben-

288 THEODOSIA

tham, and the pleasant times he passed with him at
his house in London. Burr told his daugher that
Bentham liked cats. She replied:

I am sorry Jeremy Bentham likes cats. I hate them; but hence-
forth I shall treat them with infinite deference, and, whenever a cat
crosses my path, make her my obeisance as one of the family of his
chosen favourites. You must not talk to Mr. Bentham when writing
in cipher. It causes you to make errors. You know I love to convict
you of an error, as some philosophers seek for spots on the sun. . . .
You inquire what you shall send Frederic. Would not some treatise
upon agriculture and the dairy, or some seeds of the finest grapes
and best wheat be at once pleasing and serviceable? He sometimes
thinks seriously of becoming a cotton planter and residing with me at
the mountains. I do not know what will be his determination.

Theodosia was in hopes that some money would
be paid so that a remittance could be sent to her
father. She waited eighteen days, then wrote on
February 19:

I had hoped long before this to have done something efficient in
your pecuniary concerns; but the important person is still from home.
A letter received yesterday informs me of this again, and adds that he
is expected daily. This has been the case for months. As soon as
he reaches his place of destination, he will receive a visit from me.
This is the only hope of success. Great Heaven! How truly miser-
able your situation renders me. What is to be done? Yet do not
despair. Wait a little longer; perhaps the next packet may bring
you all you wish. . . . Your acquaintance, Mr. Samuel Swartwout,
arrived a few days since, out of spirits and disappointed. He has
left us again with new courage. He has not contributed to enliven
me. Already anxious and distressed about you, he has rendered me
doubly so by the addition of unavailing regrets, and the dreadful con-
viction that I have been the cause of real injury to you by the delay
my illness occasioned. This I had felt before, but it never appeared
to me in its full extent till after my conversation with him. The
poignant sufferings this idea has occasioned me are indescribable;
and though my life has been saved by it, I cannot rejoice at it, from a

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 289

belief that your happiness will greatly depend upon my existence.
And can I then remunerate you for such sacrifices merely by living ?
Under every sort of misery this reflection would make me careful of
life, as of a treasure which I have in keeping for you, to be spent in
your service.

Colonel Burr had evidently written to his daughter
that it was necessary for her to send him some money.
She answered on the 31st of May, 1809; being then
at the Oaks, in South Carolina :

Alas! how bitterly do I regret that it is not in my power to obey
you. The conduct of your imagined friend is infamous beyond ex-
pression. No man alive to one single feeling of honour would have
behaved thus. Now the embargo and non-intercourse acts are done
away, and the re-animation of commerce has deprived him of the only
apology he could have offered, I shall write to him and tell him much
more openly my opinion, and sign my name at full length. But if
this last effort should likewise fail, I know not what we can do. I
sometimes, often, indeed, pass the night without closing my eyes,
occupied in fruitless endeavors to suggest some mode of indemnifying
you.

When Theodosia was young, Colonel Burr had
expressed in a letter to his wife the hope that their
daughter would never become a votary of fashion.
In one of her letters she said: 'I might have had a
little court of gentlemen, but this sort of admiration,
which is excited by trifles, is not worth the price that
must be paid for it. The good- will of my own sex
is preferable and a certain reserve respectable. I
therefore received few male visitors, and did not
encourage them to return often."

What Colonel Burr considered, in some respects,
quite amusing, and which he greatly enjoyed, if the
record made in his journal is accepted as being
written in a serious manner, had a far different effect

290 THEODOSIA

upon his daughter. She wrote from Rocky River
Springs, South Carolina, August 1, 1809:

Your removal from England was first announced to me by a para-
graph in the newspapers; and for some minutes I remained stupefied,
as if stunned by the blow. All hope of its falsehood is now annihilated
by the receipt of your letter. Thus, then, has vanished all the pleasure
I derived from reflecting on the advantages of your late residence,
which was rendered as delightful as exile can be by identity of language,
and by the attentions of friends perfectly congenial to you. . . . You
undoubtedly saved my life by preventing me from coming here last
year. The lodging is very bad; such as you have often had in your
half -finished log cabins; the food to suit, and the mineral waters are
positively poison to rne. ... I have written a second time to the
gentleman who promised us the supply of funds; but there is little to
be hoped from him. On inquiry, I find that his character does not
stand very high as a man of punctilious honour in money dealings.
The style of my last letter was open, and my name to it in full length.
Perhaps he may be teased into a performance of his engagements.
His conduct is a serious addition to all the accumulated difficulties
which already pour in upon us, and which would absolutely over-
whelm any other being than yourself. Indeed, I witness your ex-
traordinary fortitude with new wonder at every new misfortune.
Often, after reflecting on this subject, you appear to me so superior,
so elevated above all other men, I contemplate you with such a strange
mixture of humility, admiration, reverence, love, and pride, that very
little superstition would be necessary to make me worship you as a
superior being, such enthusiasm does your character excite in me.
When I afterward revert to myself, how insignificant do my best
qualities appear. My vanity would be greater if I had not been placed
so near you; and yet, my pride is our relationship. I had rather not
live than not be the daughter of such a man.

From Cheraw, South Carolina, on August 31,
1809, Theodosia wrote:

Reflection had already greatly reconciled me to your removal be-
fore the receipt of your letter, which has assisted to console me. Al-
though I know that whatever might be your sufferings in any situation,

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 291

you would prevent the infection from spreading to your friends as long
as you possibly could, yet your assurances cheer me irresistibly. ... I
have written a second time to Judas. My letter cannot fail to reach
him. It is written openly in my own name. Perhaps he may be
driven to a compliance with his engagements. I mean to try.

In one of Theodosia's letters to her father, she
mentioned that Frederic, her step-brother, had
thought of going South and becoming a planter.
The letter which follows was in the possession of a
descendant of Frederic Prevost. A copy wTas sup-
plied for use in this work. It has never before ap-
peared in print. In it, Theodosia exerted all her
powers of persuasion to induce her step-brother to
come South and settle in South Carolina. The
letter was written at Chevalos, a District of South
Carolina, northeast of Waccamaw, September 12,
1809.

Your letter enclosing that from Washington reached me just before
I left Springville. The long expected answer from Mrs. Madison
was such as reason and experience unmixed with hope might have
led us to suppose it. She expresses great affection for me, calling me
her "precious friend," pays me compliments badly turned, and regrets
that Mr. M. finds it impossible to gratify my wishes, &c. You will
be more pleased to hear that I have received a letter from A. B., dated
Gottenburg, where he arrived safely but with the loss of all his luggage,
an accident he laughs at, although he is destitute of the means of
procuring another supply. To my inexpressible relief he says that
he has in view some means of support which will rescue him at present
from this state of dependence. Yet I fear that he may say so merely
to alleviate my anxiety, for what can he do at Stockholm ?

Your few lines afflicted me. Could you for one instant imagine
that I neglected you ? You who are so near my heart, whom nature
has made my friend by congeniality of character and feeling, by a
thousand kind offices and the nearest ties of blood. Oh, Frederic,
you do not yet know me. My silence was occasioned by severe illness
which violent cold, and not the climate, had brought on me. But I

292 THEODOSIA

am now quite well and in a few days we shall set off for Greenville.
Our plans relative to the mountain establishment have not altered
in the least. We have already secured a house for the next year, and
have paid a part of the rent for the purpose of repairs, and intend
remaining in it till we can build one of our own. We propose leaving
this part of the country in a few days on a tour which Mr. A's business
renders necessary and which we shall terminate by a visit to Green-
ville. When there I shall inform you circumstantially of everything
which can interest you, for I continue to think that you will no where
else find a residence uniting so many advantages. From your letter
you still appear to be in doubt about your removal, and Bartow's
determination to settle in New York will, I suppose, render you still
more averse to leaving it. But you should recollect that your indi-
vidual gratification is not alone to be considered, however happy you
may be in the society of a brother we both love, yet the advancement
of your children is a more pressing and imperious consideration.
The more I reflect on it, the more sensible I become to all the unceas-
ing cares and mortifications which await you. Should your daughters
grow up where they now are, with a small fortune, by hard labor,
which as you grow older will be more and more oppressive, you will
either have to maintain six unmarried daughters, or what is more
probable, after suffering incessant anxiety, you will be doomed to see
them marrying in a way which will humble you and place them in a
state of poverty and struggle. At Greenwich and in the country
around it, there are many men who from the smallest beginning,
indeed from nothing, have by hard labor and economy and good
luck, accumulated comfortable fortunes. These men educate their
sons very respectably, and your situation, the standing you will take,
must give your daughters the chance of settling comfortably on grow-
ing estates, in a country where everything is improving. This con-
sideration alone should determine you. The pleasure which you,
and the advantages which your children will derive from my presence
and my care you can best determine the value of — and that the
country is as healthful as Montpellier I can really assure you. Pray
let me hear what you did with rny letter to Clarke.

Burr continues well and improves daily. He and I both kiss your
dear little family with all our hearts. Adieu. You shall hear
from me immediately on my arrival at Greenville which will not
take place very shortly, however; in the meantime, do not attrib-

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 293

ute my silence to neglect. Adieu again. Direct to Oaks near
Georgetown, S. C.

T.

On September 26, 1810, Burr wrote to his daughter
from Paris:

Not a line from you since the letter of August, 1809, which was
acknowledged from Gottenburg. ... I have a few books for you,
particularly dictionaries, but can send nothing by this opportunity.
Gampillo has not been forgotten. My health is always the same;
but I ennui here for want of you and your boy. My stock of nonsense
to amuse you both increases daily, and we shall have a deal to laugh at.

He wrote again from Paris, on the 10th of Novem-
ber, 1810:

Alas, my dear Theodosia, I have no hope of seeing you this winter.
It is more than five months since I have been constantly soliciting
from this government a passport for America. Fair promises and
civil words have been received, but nothing more. It would be folly
to hope, yet daily some new occurrence or new promise inspires new
hope. . . . The only consolation which I can offer you for this dis-
appointment is that my health continues unimpaired, and I have
the present means of support. A little addition to those means would
not be inconvenient. Continue to write to that gentleman on whose
unpaid notes I relied, and of which not a cent has been received. . . .
Not a line from you since August, 1809, fifteen months ago. It is
only by mere accident that I know you were living last July. ... I
live with a very amiable Genevoise family, of which I am a member.
Every morning I devote half an hour, sometimes an hour, to you.

Whatever feelings of anxiety might have been
experienced by Colonel Burr, they were felt in a
much greater degree by his daughter. On January
8, 1811, she wrote to him from the Oaks:

At length I have had the happiness to receive intelligence from
you in some degree satisfactory. Your letter of the 26th of September
has come to relieve me from the state of daily, hourly expectation,

294 THEODOSIA

anxiety, and suspense in which I have remained for a year. Exactly
twelve months ago I received a letter from you dated at Stockholm;
in it you earnestly requested, or rather commanded, me to visit
Charleston during the course of the winter. Of course, this made me
suppose that you intended to be there. But instead of going to town,
I went to bed, where I spent nearly three months. During my illness,
±he hope of seeing you, disappointment at your delay, and terror lest
your silence might have been occasioned by some unfortunate acci-
dent, kept me in a state of mind little short of distraction.

Imagine to yourself the feelings of a woman whose naturally irri-
table nerves were destroyed by severe illness, and who, during weeks
of solitude, and pain, and inoccupation, lay pondering incessantly,
amid doubt and impatience, and hope and fear, on the subject which
mingled through the whole extent of her soul. You who can so well
and so singularly bring home to yourself the feelings of others, and
adopt them when they are quite strange to you, think of my situation,
and with me wonder that I did not go mad. . . . When will this
gloom of absence pass away? When will your presence dawn upon
me again ? . . . On the subject of pecuniary affairs, I can say nothing
pleasing. My husband has offered the two lower plantations for
sale; but although the advertisement has continued for several months,
no proposals were received. He would sell at almost anything, but
the country is in a dreadful state. Everyone is trying to sell and no
one will or can buy. Every article of clothing and groceries is higher
than when you were here. Such is the situation of the country that
even my husband condemns the present measures of government,
and joins in the almost universal cry for free commerce or war, with-
out delays or temporizing any longer. . . . Come home; you may
without fear, come home. Make any sacrifice; risk anything, rather
than continue to lead this unpleasant and unprofitable life.

Theodosia wrote again from the Oaks on Febru-
ary 14, 1811.

Your letter of 10th November last is just received. The difficulty
you find in procuring a passport excites many unpleasant feelings.
Will not any of your old friends assist you ? Pray return as soon as
possible. In dear New York you have many friends; and in Con-
necticut, I believe, a majority of the citizens are attached to you, a

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 295

greater proportion than in any other State in the Union. . . . Many
of my letters have been lost. I have written to you frequently since
August, 1809. I thank God that you have present means of support.
Economize them; for even those who might be willing are, or will be,
unable to assist you. This country (the United States) is in a de-
plorable condition. So many bankruptcies have taken place in New
York, that even private amusements are affected by them. Here
our produce will not sell; the necessaries of life are high; creditors
pressing; the newspapers filled with advertisements of property which
finds no purchasers. . . . John Swartwout is true, invariably and
nobly conspicuous as the sun. He retrieves the character of man. . . .
Gampillo drinks your health every day and everywhere. He, too, has
written to you often. The miscarriage of his letters he deems a great
misfortune to you and himself.

Tlieodosia determined to aid her father, if possible,
in his efforts to secure a passport and return to the
United States. She wrote a letter to Mr. Gallatin,
on March 9, 1811, being then at her home at the Oaks.

Though convinced of your firmness, still with the utmost diffidence
I venture to address you on a subject which it is almost dangerous to
mention, and which, in itself, affords me no claim on your attention.
Yet, trusting that you will not withhold an opinion deeply interesting
to me, and which your present station enables you to form with
peculiar correctness, I venture to inquire whether you suppose that
my father's return to this country would be productive of ill conse-
quences to him, or draw on him farther prosecution from any branch
of the government.

You will the more readily forgive me for taking the liberty to make
such a request, when you reflect that, retired as I am from the world,
it is impossible for me to gather the general opinion from my own
observation. I am, indeed, perfectly aware how unexpected will be
this demand; that it places you in a situation of some delicacy; and
that to return a satisfactory answer will be to exert liberality and
candour; I am aware of all this, and yet do not desist.

Recollect what are my incitements. Recollect that I have seen my
father dashed from the high rank he held in the minds of his country-
men, imprisoned, and forced into exile. Must he ever remain thus

296 THEODOSIA

excommunicated from the participation of domestic enjoyments and
the privileges of a citizen; aloof from his accustomed sphere, and
singled, out as a mark for the shafts of calumny ? Why should he be
thus proscribed and held up in execration ? What benefit to the coun-
try can possibly accrue from the continuation of this system ? Surely
it must be evident to the worst enemies of my father, that no man,
situated as he will be, could obtain any undue influence, even sup-
posing him desirous of it.

But pardon me if my feeling has led me astray from my object,
which was not to enter upon a discussion with you. I seek only to
solicit an enlightened opinion relative to facts which involve my best
hopes of happiness.

Present, if you please, my respects to Mrs. Gallatin, and accept
the assurances of my high consideration.

THEODOSIA BURR ALSTON.

Not receiving encouragement from Mr. Gallatin,
she addressed a letter to Mrs. Dolly Madison, the
President's wife:

Madam :

You may perhaps be surprised at receiving a letter from one with
whom you have had so little intercourse for the last few years. But
your surprise will cease when you recollect that my father, once your
friend, is now in exile; and that the President can only restore him to
me and his country.

Ever since the choice of the people was first declared in favor of
Mr. Madison, my heart, amid the universal joy, has beat with the hope
that I, too, should soon have reason to rejoice. Convinced that Mr.
Madison would neither feel nor judge from the feelings or judgment
of others, I had no doubt of his hastening to relieve a man whose
character he had been enabled to appreciate during a confidential
intercourse of long continuance, and whom (he) must know incapable
of the designs attributed to him. My anxiety on this subject has,
however, become too painful to be alleviated by anticipations which
no events have yet tended to justify; and in this state of intolerable
suspense I have determined to address myself to you, and request
that you will, in my name, apply to the President for a removal of the
prosecution now existing against Aaron Burr.

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 297

Statesmen, I am aware, deem it necessary that sentiments of lib-
erality, and even justice, should yield to consideration of policy; but
what policy can require the absence of my father at present ? Even
had he contemplated the project for which he stands arraigned, evi-
dently to pursue it any further would now be impossible. There is
not left one pretext of alarm even to calumny; for bereft of fortune, of
popular favor, and almost of friends, what could he accomplish?
And whatever may be the apprehensions or the clamors of the igno-
rant and the interested, surely the timid, illiberal system which would
sacrifice a man to a remote and unreasonable possibility that he might
infringe some law founded on an unjust, unwarrantable suspicion that
he would desire it, cannot be approved by Mr. Madison, and must
be unnecessary to a President so loved, so honored. Why, then, is
my father banished from a country for which he has encountered
wounds and dangers and fatigue for years ? Why is he driven from
his friends, from an only child, to pass an unlimited time in exile, and
that, too, at an age when others are reaping the harvest of past toils,
or ought, at least, to be providing seriously for the comfort of ensuing
years ? I do not seek to soften you by this recapitulation. I only
wish to remind you of all the injuries which are inflicted on one of the
first characters the United States ever produced.

Perhaps it may be well to assure you there is no truth in a report,
lately circulated, that my father intends returning immediately. He
never will return to conceal himself in a country on which he has
conferred distinction.

To whatever fate Mr. Madison may doom this application, I trust
it will be treated with delicacy. Of this I am the more desirous as
Mr. Alston is ignorant of the step I have taken in writing to you,
which, perhaps, nothing could excuse but the warmth of filial affection.
If it be an error, attribute it to the indiscreet zeal of a daughter whose
soul sinks at the gloomy prospect of a long and indefinite separation
from a father almost adored, and who can leave unattempted nothing
which offers the slightest hope of procuring him redress. WThat, in-
deed, would I not risk once more to see him, to hang upon him, to place
my child on his knee, and again spend my days in the happy occupa-
tion of endeavoring to anticipate all his wishes ?

Let me entreat, my dear Madam, that you will have the considera-
tion and goodness to answer me as speedily as possible; my heart is
sore with doubt and patient waiting for something definitive. No

298 THEODOSIA

apologies are made for giving you this trouble, which I am sure you
will not deem irksome to take for a daughter, an affectionate daughter,
thus situated. Inclose your letter for me to A. J. Frederic Prevost,
Esq., near New Rochelle, New York.
That every happiness may attend you,

Is the sincere wish of

THEO. BURR ALSTON.

Parton says: 'This letter was probably not in-
effectual. Certain it is that the government offered
no serious obstacle to Burr's return, and instituted no
further proceedings against him. Probably, too,
Theodosia received some kind of assurance to this
effect, for we find her urging her father not only to
return, but to go boldly to New York, among his old
friends, and resume there the practice of his profes-
sion. The great danger to be apprehended was
from his creditors, who then had power to confine a
debtor within limits, if not to throw him into prison."

Burr wrote to his daughter from Paris, April 1,
1811, or April Fool's Day:

No such epithet is attached to it here, nor any such application
made of it. ... With me every day for the last eight months has been
fool's day; for almost every day I have been cajoled by some new
device. A passport is all I ask, and thus far refused. . . . But to
console you, know that Vanderlyn will sail for the United States some
time in May. By him you shall know everything, and by him you
shall have your books.

Theodosia wrote from the Oaks on May 10, 1811:

This morning, and not until this morning, did I receive your letter
of the 10th of January, 1811. In this way has our correspondence
been maintained for the last two years. Now I hear that you are com-
ing immediately; and while wondering that you have not arrived, I
learn that you will be detained much longer. Then my hopes are again
awakened, and, when again almost exhausted, they light up with a

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 299

stronger, though a trembling brilliancy. The icy hand of disappoint-
ment falls upon my heart to smother every spark. Do not frown at
these complaints. You do not. I will not believe that you do. Your
image, kind and indulgent, is my guardian angel. From how many
follies, how many faults, does it preserve me. It was accorded to me
as a talisman, to cheer my prospects, to strengthen my resolutions,
and incite me to noble efforts.

Theodosia then became indignant because her
father had not been allowed a passport:

The refusal of your passports by the agent of our government is a
most overbearing and insulting outrage upon the common rights of a
citizen. Who erected an American charge d'affaires into a supreme
judge ? Who invested him with the most important prerogatives ? . . .
At all events it is better to brave any storm than to be leading your
present life. It is better that things be brought to a crisis you cannot
entirely sink under; and, the worst once over, you will be free from
all restraint. You may be situated as formerly. It cannot injure
you more than this long-continued threat. // the worst comes to the
worst, I will leave everything to suffer with you. . . . We go on as
formerly. The family make me endure frequent vexations, but my
husband is not to be swayed by their machinations, or moved by their
endeavors to persuade him that, the more dear he is, the more hate-
ful must I be; I, who have occasioned him so many hours of pain.
This is not directly and openly expressed, but often insinuated. He is
kind, attentive, and considerate towards me. My health is good;
it would be very good if my mind were at ease. But cares corrode
my heart and undermine my constitution, although my spirits are
apparently excellent. . . . My son makes good progress, but at times
he is seized with a singular kind of torpor; a heavy listlessness, which
it is impossible to remove, because every weapon strikes without
effect, and becomes incapable of producing any sensation. These fits
do not last above a day at a time; and, as he is naturally lively, I can
attribute them to nothing but seclusion. He needs companions to
excite emulation in labour and hilarity at play. I am glad you intend
sending him a little present. . . . Heaven guide your steps and direct
your plans.

On July 11, 1811, Burr wrote from Paris: "The

300 THEODOSIA

letters of my dear little Gamp have not come. They
will come, however, for I will ransack all Europe for
them. By Vanderlyn will write to him."

Burr was to receive his passport, but peculiar
pressure was needed to force the American charge
d'affaires to grant it. This needed pressure was
applied by the Duke of Bassano, who wrote as fol-
lows, to Mons. Denon, on July 18, 1811: "The
person through whom I could have communicated
to Mr. Russell that he should not have refused a new
passport to Mr. Burr wras in the country. I wrote
to her yesterday to return. She arrived at the mo-
ment that your note was received. I shall have the
passport in the course of the day, and shall forward
it immediately to the Duke (Rovigo), and I am con-
vinced that you will receive it to-morrow to transmit
to Mr. Burr."

Mr. Davis supplies the following explanation of
Mr. Russell's change of heart: "Thus affairs were
managed in France. The rightful claims of an
American citizen for a passport were spurned for
months by the patriotic Mr. Russell. But the French
Minister (Bassano) knew the influence which would
control the American charge (Russell) and, there-
fore, Madame was desired to come to Paris.

Her presence in a few hours changed the stern decree
of this pure patriot, and the passport was instantly
granted." Those who possess copies of Aaron
Burr's Journal will find confirmation of the preced-
ing in the entries for July 16, 17, and 18, 1811.

We cannot forbear from quoting here a para-
graph relating to General John Armstrong, who had
been a classmate of Burr at Princeton, and who was

HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 301

now United States Minister to France; Jonathan
Russell, who was charge d'affaires at Paris; and Mr.
McRae, Consul at Paris, who had been one of the
counsel for the prosecution at Burr's trial for high
treason at Richmond. They formed a trio which
combined their forces and used every endeavor to
prevent Burr's return to his native land (84).

When one reflects if he had been allowed to leave France when he
desired, that his daughter Theodosia might have been spared to be
with him and care for him in his declining years, and that her own
valuable life and that of her son might have been saved, the respon-
sibility of these three political enemies of Burr becomes manifest.
It should have caused them a lifelong regret, being an unnecessary
sacrifice for which there could be no adequate requital in this world.

Burr sailed from the Texel on September 29, 1811,
in the American ship Vigilant, bound to Boston. On
the same day the Vigilant was captured by a British
frigate and sent to Yarmouth, England. Burr was
allowed to land and went at once to London. He
found a letter from Jeremy Bentham, who was at his
country residence, where he went and passed a week.
By doing so, he missed a vessel commanded by
Captain McNeil, which sailed for Charleston, S. C.,
while he was on his visit.

On February 6, 1812, Burr wrote to his daughter
from London. It was not until this date that the
ship Vigilant was freed on payment of costs amount-
ing to eight hundred pounds sterling. Burr had
paid his passage by her to America, but Jonathan
Russell had been transferred to London, and again
interfered to prevent Burr from obtaining a passport.
In his letter Burr said: 'The last of your letters
which has come to hand is of April, 1810, which

302 THEODOSIA

gave me some ground of apprehension for your
health. Ballston is your only remedy. The verbal
accounts which I receive of you are very few and
very unsatisfactory. All you say of the boy delights
me. My profound respects to Mr. Aaron Burr
Alston, and that I promise myself great pleasure in
his society."

On Friday, March 27, 1812, he wrote in his Jour-
nal: "On board the ship Aurora, of Newburyport,
Captain Potter, bound to Boston, now at anchor in
the Thames, twenty-six miles below Gravesend.
Captain Potter only, of all on board this ship, knows
me; so far, at least, as I am informed. I came on
board under the name of Arnot, and am so called.
It will be very wonderful if this secret should be
kept during the whole passage."

The last day of the homeward journey: "Boston
Harbour, May 4, 1812. At four this morning land
was discovered. At seven Cape Ann Lighthouse
was shown to me. A pilot is in sight, and within
two miles of us. All is bustle and joy, except Gamp.
Why should he rejoice? At three P.M. we cast
anchor off the Wharf at Boston."

He remained in Boston until May 30. He was
obliged to sell some books in order to obtain his
passage money to Newr York. Dr. Kirkland, Presi-
dent of Harvard College, was the purchaser, giving
Burr the option of taking back the books and re-
paying the money when he should please to do so.

We give some brief extracts from his Journal.

'May 29. Have embarked all my effects. Adieu,

Boston. May 30, 1812. On board the sloop Rose,

Captain Dimon, off Boston Harbour. The sloop

[ HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 303

Rose is a leetle teenty thing of forty tons. Price (to
New York) twenty dollars and found. June 4, 1812.
On board the Rose off Mill River, Fairfield (Conn.) "

This was the town in which he had passed so
much time when a young man, and where he met
Dorothy Quincy, afterwards the wife of John Han-
cock. "I had been urged to accompany my cousin,
Thaddeus Burr, on a fishing and shooting excursion.
I have a mind to go to-morrow morning to renew my
former acquaintance with all the inanimate objects;
but then, the hazard of recognition; that is the rub.
After breakfast the Captain rode out on horseback
and I strolled three or four hours ... in the neigh-
borhood. Every object was as familiar to me as
those about Richmond Hill, and the review brought
up many pleasant and whimsical associations. At
several doors I saw the very lips I had kissed and the
very eyes that had ogled me in the persons of their
grandmothers about six-and-thirty years ago. I did
not venture into any of their houses, lest some of the
grandmothers might recollect me."

Burr was obliged to take passage in another vessel
in order to reach New York, which he did on June
8, 1812. The last few lines of his Journal read thus:
"Being already dressed (he passed his first night on
shore in a cheap lodging house), I rose, paid for my
lodging twelve cents, and sallied out to 66 Water
Street, and then had the good luck to find Sam
(Swartwout) alone. He led me immediately to the
house of his brother Robert, and here I am, in posses-
sion of Sam's room in Stone Street, in the City of
New York, on the 8th day of June, anno dom. 1812.
Just four years since we parted on this very place."

304 THEODOSIA

To Theodosia now came the greatest affliction,
the crowning sorrow of her life. On July 12, 1812,
she wrote:

A few miserable days past, my dear father, and your late letters
would have gladdened my soul; and even now I rejoice at their con-
tents as much as it is possible for me to rejoice at anything. I have
lost my boy. My child is gone forever. He expired on the 30th of
June.

My head is not now sufficiently collected to say anything further.
May Heaven, by other blessings, make you some amends for the noble
grandson you have lost.

THEODOSIA.

A fortnight later Colonel Alston wrote to his
father-in-law :

A few miserable weeks since, my dear sir, and in spite of all the
embarrassments, the troubles, and disappointments which have fallen
to our lot since we parted, I would have congratulated you on your
return in the language of happiness. With my wife on one side and
my boy on the other, I felt myself superior to depression. The present
was enjoyed, the future was anticipated with enthusiasm. One dread-
ful blow has destroyed us; reduced us to the veriest, the most sub-
limated wretchedness. That boy, on whom all rested; our companion,
our x'riend — he who was to have transmitted down the mingled blood
of Iheodosia and myself - -he who was to have redeemed all your
glory, and shed new lustre upon our families - - that boy, at once our
happiness and pride, is taken from us — is dead. We saw him dead.
My own hand surrendered him to the grave; yet we are alive. But it
is past. I will not conceal from you that life is a burden, which,
heavy as it is, we shall both support, if not with dignity, at least with
decency and firmness. Theodosia has endured all that a human
being could endure; but her admirable mind will triumph. She sup-
ports herself in a manner worthy of your daughter.

We have not yet been able to form any definite plan of life. My
present wish is that Theodosia should join you, with or without me,
as soon as possible. My command here, as brigadier-general, em-
barrasses me a good deal in the disposal of myself. I would part

1 HER GREAT AFFLICTIONS 305

with Theodosia reluctantly; but if I find myself detained here, I shall
certainly do so. I not only recognize your claim to her after such
a separation, but change of scene and your society will aid her, I am
conscious, in recovering at least that tone of mind which we are des-
tined to carry through life with us.

I have great anxiety to be employed against Quebec, should an
army be ordered thither, and have letters prepared asking of the
president a brigade in that army. From the support which that
request will have, if not obtained now, I doubt not that it will be at
the first increase of the military force, which, if the war be seriously
carried on, must be as soon as Congress meet. Then, be the event
what it may, I shall at least gain something. Adieu.

Yours with respect and regard,

JOSEPH ALSTON.

Just a month after Theodosia informed her father
of the death of her boy, she wrote him again from
Seashore :

Alas ! my dear father, I do live, but how does it happen ? Of what
am I formed that I live, and why ? Of what service can I be in this
world to you, or anyone else, with a body reduced to premature old
age, and a mind enfeebled and bewildered ? Yet, since it is my lot to
live, I will endeavor to fulfill my part, and exert myself to my utmost,
though this life must henceforth be to me a bed of thorns. Which-
ever way I turn, the same anguish still assails me. You talk of
consolation. Ah! You know not what you have lost. I (hink
Omnipotence could give me no equivalent for my boy; no, none -
none.

I wish to see you, and will leave this as soon as possible, though
not so soon as you propose. I could not go alone by land, for our
coachman is a great drunkard, and requires the presence of a master,
and my husband is obliged to wait for a military court of inquiry,
which he demanded and is ordered on him. It will sit on the 10th of
August. How long it will be in session, I know not. After that we
shall set off, though I do not perceive how it is possible to speak with
certainty, because Mr. Alston has the command of a brigade here.
When we do go, he thinks of going by water, but it is not determined.
It will probably be late in August before we go. God bless you, my

306 THEODOSIA

beloved father. Write to me sometimes. What do you wish done
with your papers, if I should go by land ?

I have been reading your letters over again. I am not insensible
to your affection, nor quite unworthy of it, though I can offer nothing
in return but the love of a broken, deadened heart, still desirous of
promoting your happiness, if possible. God bless you.

THEODOSIA.

What words could be used to show more intensely
the desolation of a bereaved mother's heart than
those penned by her own trembling hand? The
thousands upon thousands of mothers who have felt
the same poignant shaft are the only ones who can
fully understand, wrho can fully sympathize with
such a sorrowful condition. The consolation that
religion affords points to a meeting in the future —
in Heaven, where we shall know our own.

"Oh, when a Mother meets on high,
The Babe she lost in infancy,
Hath she not then, for pains and fears,
The day of woe, the watchful night,
For all her sorrow, all her tears,
An over-payment of delight?"

T

CHAPTER XIII

HER FATHER IN EXILE

HEODOSIA'S life was a sacrifice due to two
primary causes - - the Southern climate and her
father's erratic career. The first cause undermined
her constitution and shattered her health; the second
affected her mentally. Not being able to recruit
physically, her nerves became more and more un-
strung. It is a wonder that she did not have our
modern disease - — nervous prostration ; perhaps she
did, although it was not called by that name.

She was a beautiful, transplanted Northern flower,
but the change to a Southern clime did not agree
with her. From the sodden rice field near her home
a miasma arose - - an earth-born poison which in-
fected the atmosphere. She was aw^are of this, for
in one of her letters to her husband she begged him
not to go out until the sun was high and the un-
healthy mist was burned away by the sun.

We must not blame the physicians of those days,
for they represented the advanced medical thought
— of the time. No physician now would treat ma-
laria with mercury ; he would rely upon that supreme
preventative - - and often cure - - quinine. Tne doc-
tors, in 1799, treated Washington's sore throat by
bleeding, so we ought not to be surprised that the
remedy did not fit the disease in Mrs. Alston's
case. It is probable that her son's fits of stupor,
to which she referred in the letter to her father,

307

308 THEODOSIA

were due to malaria, and his death to its attendant
fever.

While Theodosia was suffering both physically
and mentally, going from South to North, and then
back again; from shore to mountain, and then to
shore again, in the hope of winning back the strength
to her body and the roses to her cheeks, what was her
father doing ? Where was he, and how did he fare ?

Reference has been made to the 'Journal' kept
by him during his residence in Europe, from 1808
to 1812. He visited England, Sweden, Denmark,
Holland, Germany, and France, paying a second but
unwilling visit to England. When he left it finally,
he wrote in his Journal: 'I shake the dust off my
feet. Adieu, John Bull! Insula inhospitabilis, as it
was truly called 1800 years ago."

No one can justly estimate the man unless he has
read this daily transcript of his thoughts and actions.
Judged by modern standards, there is much in it to
condemn from a moral point of view. A study of
history shows like dereliction in the lives of many
great men - - some of whom were afterwards made
saints.

Burr was a natural raconteur. He was a facile
writer - - concise, witty, philosophical, pathetic, by
turns. Through it all is shown his dominant, abid-
ing love for his daughter and grandson. She appears
constantly in its pages; sometimes as Theodosia;
more often as Theo. The initials "T. B. A." oc-
cur frequently; in many instances only the letter

T is used, but whatever the form of identification,
the love, the interest, is always there, though often
tempered by mild, or even stern, reproof. The

I HER FATHER IN EXILE 300

school-teaching habit, probably inherited, adhered
to him to the last, and he never failed to encourage
his daughter to improve her mind, and to avoid
ennui by occupation. He usually referred to him-
self in both letters and Journal as "A. B.':

When his grandson, Aaron Burr Alston, first tried
to say "grandfather' or "grandpa," his infant lips
could only form the word 'Gampy." This childish
speech so pleased Burr that he called the boy
"Gamp," or "Gampillo," or by the Latin form
" Gampillus." He often referred to himself as
"Gamp," meaning, of course, 'grandfather." In a
few instances he used the initials ''A. B. A."

It has been the custom of biographers, historians,
and writers of articles, stories, or books, to refer to
Burr's life in Europe as a period of continual priva-
tion. He is depicted as an exile, an outcast, welcome
in no man's house, an honored guest at no man's
table. To change entirely this opinion, it is only
necessary to read the Journal. The edition pub-
lished in 1838 is virtually out of print; that issued in
1903 wTas limited to 250 copies, thus rendering it
inaccessible to the great reading public. It covers
900 octavo pages, being in two volumes. If reprinted
and sold at a reasonable price, it would certainly
have a large sale.

It is proposed in this volume to cull from the
Journal wrhat are deemed the most interesting pas-
sages relating to his daugher and grandson, together
with conclusive testimony that while abroad he met
the shining lights in science and literature, was well
received by them, as also by government officials,
and members of the nobility, and even royalty. It

310 THEODOSIA j

was not until he reached France, and during his
second visit to England, that his finances fell to a
low level. Money due him in America was not paid;
but his money troubles were due principally to the
political animosity of General John Armstrong,
Jonathan Russell, and Samuel McRae, whose in-
dividual, and oftentimes combined, opposition to his
receiving a passport kept him in Europe two years
longer than he intended to stay. Through it all he
was the philosopher, the man of iron will, and despite
the constant and powerful touches of adversity, he
retained his good-nature and health, and said very
little against those who had so spitefully treated and
abused him.

The writer hopes to be excused for presenting in
what may be called a statistical form the results of a
tabulation made of certain information contained in
the Journal. Colonel Burr was absent four years;
during that time he had 52 invitations to breakfast,
199 to dinner, and 67 to luncheon, tea, or supper.
He made it a rule never to accept an invitation to a
meal unless he had the means to buy one for himself.
One day he would dine in princely fashion, and the
next content himself with potatoes roasted in the
ashes of his grate, with a sour French wine for drink,
and a bunch of grapes Tor dessert. His rides and
walks, by invitation, numbered 46; there were 166
persons who called upon him, and he made 653
visits of a business or social nature.

With these facts before us, it cannot be truthfully
said that during his sojourn in Europe he was an
outcast or a recluse.

And now, after this general preparation for our

HER FATHER IN EXILE 311

journey, we will accompany him on his travels,
omitting reference to his passage to England, and
beginning with his acquaintance with Jeremy Ben-
tham, who became, and always remained, his friend.

Amiable simplicity of Jeremy Bentham. He was interested in the
picture of Theo. "Dear little creature. Let her take care."

At Ridgeway's; left with Madame, an obliging woman, a memoran-
dum of books for A. B. A.

To Duval's to dine at five. A family party. The counsellor,
Lewis, very intelligent. I had lent for a few days the picture of Theo-
dosia, which was hung up there and employed more of my thoughts
than the dinner and company. We drank her health, etc.

Called at Madame Duval's to thank her for the pretty manner in
which the picture was sent home. She said rolling injured it; and she
had procured a very handsome portfolio, made just to receive it; an
attention which very much pleased me.

To Achaud's; saw Madame only; gave instructions about the letters
they are to write to Portsmouth, Falmouth, and Liverpool, to secure
the reception of T.

(He hoped that his daughter w^ould join him in
Europe.)

Called at Herries and Farquar's, St. James Street, agents of the
late Colonel Charles Williamson to see for letters from T. None!
None!

Sent Tom with the packet for T. < He put it into the mail for Fal-
mouth.

Gamp was tired and stopped a quarter of an hour to eat a jelly
cake. 8 pence.

It is in the evening only that I wrote to you in this manner. Called
at Madame W's. on my return. She says that several have called
without leaving their names; perhaps someone with letters from you.
The sight of your handwriting would make a jubilee in my heart.

312 THEODOSIA

I refused a bed at Madame Prevost's, being more at my ease to
smoke my segar and tell little Theo what I have been about. But I
don't tell her half, nor quarter; these are only notes to write from.
Afraid to write out.

It has been assumed by those who are prone to
place wrong conceptions on such sentences as the
last one in the preceding extract, that Colonel Burr
did not write out his notes because they were im-
proper. It should be borne in mind, however, that
Colonel Burr was in a foreign country, an object of
suspicion, and fearful that his papers would be
seized by the British government, as they were after-
ward. Having been hunted for months by officers
in his own country, and knowing that the American
representatives resident in England were aware of
his presence in that country, it seems only natural
that he should have taken precautions as regards
entries in his private journal, and in writing letters
which might fall into the hands of his enemies. The
fact is that his letters to America were not addressed
to his daughter, but were sent as inclosures to a
friend in New York, by whom they were remailed.
While in Europe, he established certain agencies for
the receipt of his letters and papers, which in turn
were remailed to him.

Madame Colonel P. gave letter to her brother at Liverpool, to whom
she also wrote about T.

I know you will rave like a Juno if you are not told what I do and
where I go every day.

Here is poor Gamp at 2 in the morning, at Queen's Square Place,
writing nonsense to T. B. A., having let all his fire go out, and the
last candle just gone.

HER FATHER IN EXILE 313

Among the literary men of England I have met M'Kenzie, author
of "Man of Feeling," and Scott, author of the "Minstrel." I met
both frequently and from both received civilities and hospitality.
M'Kenzie has twelve children - - six daughters, all very interesting
and handsome. He is remarkably sprightly in company, amiable,
witty - - might pass for 42, though certainly much older. Scott,
with less softness than M'Kenzie, has still more animation; talks
much and is very agreeable.

(At this time M'Kenzie was 64 and Sir Walter
Scott 38.)

Arbuthnot called and brought me a letter from T. B. A.

Poor little dear T., you are rivalled, but not superceded nor even
diminished in my affections, but another is associated with our joint
existence — another who will love you as I do.

Sent my letter to the post office, having enclosed to J. B., Theo's
letter of December 5th and Clara's.

Clara was Madame d'Auvergne, better known as
Leonora Sansay, author of 'The Horrors of St.
Domingo/' etc.

At Bentham's found your letter of the 3d of January, and one of
September.

Breakfast at nine. Till two bringing up the journal for T.

Answer from Humphrey. He had no further communication with
T. or W. and asks mv determination.

»/

Read over my letters of November and December to T. and by
examining the sailing of the packets, am in hopes that she got my
duplicates by the Princess Amelia, which is said to have sailed Decem-
ber 8th and arrived January 27th. Quite renovated by this discovery.

To William Graves,' whence sent express to Queen Square Place
for my letters. He returned just as we were seated in the post-chaise,
with a letter from T.

Jeremy Bentham lived in Queen's Square Place.

314 THEODOSIA

The preceding extracts have been taken from
Colonel Burr's Private Journal while he was in Eng-
land. From that country he proceeded to Sweden.

As the packet will sail to-morrow for Harwich, and the mail closes
this evening at 5, wrote a postscript to my letter to T. B. A. and a
letter to W. Graves about my trunk, enclosing to him the two letters
for T. B. A.

He (Hosack) has got "Davis' Travels," in which it seems you and
I are mentioned.

Your picture was opened and put up in my parlor about ten days
ago. It has been very greatly admired and given occasion to many
inquiries.

To Breda's to see about your picture. Nothing yet done, but his
son promises to do it, and I am sure he will.

Breda was a celebrated Swedish painter of por-
traits.

To Breda's. Nothing yet done to your picture, except putting it
in a frame.

To Breda's, where I passed an hour looking at your picture. I
was exceedingly struck and alarmed to see it pale and faded. Per-
haps it may arise from being placed among his portraits, which are
very high coloured, yet the impression that it is faded is fixed on my
mind and has almost made me superstitious.

To Helvig's; sat an hour; gave to her servant a note to Breda re-
questing him to bring the picture for her inspection.

This morning called at Breda's to see your picture. It has been
varnished and is perfectly restored. It is very much (and very justly)
admired. How much I wish I could get a copy made by Breda.

At half past seven to Breda's, where we talked a great deal about
Theodosia. "Good God," says he, "pardon the freedom, but can
any man on earth be worthy of that woman and know how to estimate
her. Such a union of delicacy, dignity, sweetness, and genius, I
never saw. Is she happy ? " He almost shed tears.

I HER FATHER IN EXILE 315

To d'H. Madame and Mile sitting on the grass; ma bella Mary
Ann (only think, your favorite name) becoming daily more interesting.

His letters to his daughter Theodosia were ad-
dressed to Mary Ann Edwards.

At twelve to Breda's to see the picture. He has placed it among all
the Goth and Vandal beauties and they are really beautiful, but all
in the shade by your presence. This and Davis has given you great
renown here.

A previous reference has been made to Davis'
Travels. Possibly Matthew L. Davis is meant.
He was one of Burr's most intimate friends; wrote
his memoirs; edited the Journal, and wrote con-
stantly for the newspapers. For a time he sent
letters from Washington to the New York Courier
and Enquirer, under the pen name of 'A Spy in
Washington." He also wrote for the London Times,
signing his letters :The Genevese Traveler." It
may be that it was to Davis' letters to the London
Times that Burr refers.

M'lle Ulrick. She is beautiful, very beautiful, about 15, nearly
your size and form.

Went to Breda's to take a book. You had a bluish cast this morn-
ing which I did not like.

To-morrow shall write you stylographically on the water. Bon
soir. Curse those swamps and the latitude of 35. Now you feel it.
Alas, where are those roses which cost an empire to restore!

Burr refers to the malarial conditions where
Theodosia resided. He was alarmed for her health.

Turnberg's. He offered me a copy of his "Travels" in Swedish,
which I very foolishly declined. He answered with great cheerfulness
my question about Japan. I had made notes so that nothing might
be forgotten. Pray, read his "Travels"; they will answer you much

316 THEODOSIA

and then you may question me. You may believe every word he
writes. You are perhaps ignorant that in Japan women are as free
as in any part of Europe, and I think rather more so, but I cannot
now (perhaps never) commit to writing all he says.

At ten to Breda's to pay my respects to the picture; found it in good
order and looking, alas, I fear, very different from the original.

To Breda's to see your picture and to talk to him. He is one of
the most sensible, well-bred men I meet; his son, too, only 21, is a
youth of extraordinary talents and amiable disposition.

Yesterday opened your picture. It is in perfect order. Luning's
contrivance had secured it completely from the dust. Since opening
it (at Stockholm) I have carried it the whole way, two hundred miles,
on my lap. Indeed, madame, you bothered me not a little. You
are now hung up in my room so that I can talk with you.

A letter, a letter, a letter! At a moment when I had given up all
expectation and even all hope. At 5 P. M., this same Tuesday, came
in a tall, meagre, well-dressed man, and asked if I were A. B. "Yes."
He handed me a letter superscribed in your handwriting. It is your
letter of the 1st and 2d August. I could have kissed the fellow.

With great trepidation I opened the picture on Sunday morning.
It has suffered no injury. It hangs in my room. But I am quite out
of humor that my visitors have expressed only commonplace admira-
tion for it. Yesterday M'lle de Coningk expressed a desire to see it,
and thither you go to-morrow.

I shall make some addition to Gampy's stock here. You can't
think what trouble the little varlet has brought me into.

Burr had promised to make a collection of foreign
coins for his grandson.

The picture has come on my lap. I could not bear to see you
bouncing about in the bottom of the wagon, but I shall not open it
again till Hamburg (Germany). My companions are asleep, and
now at 11, having had my bed warmed, much the mode here, I am also
going to make up the arrears of the last two nights, having ordered
breakfast at seven and the pretty maid to wake me at six. Let me see,

HER FATHER IN EXILE 317

how are you now employed ? Probably at breakfast with Gampy
asking you an hundred of questions about -- God knows!

Done, even the picture; all, all packed, ready for starting at sunrise.
I bid you bon soir a dozen times before I shut you in that dark case.
I can never do it without regret. It seems as if I were burying you
alive.

Your picture gave me a great deal of plague, and but for J. I should
never have got it well put up. I have a great mind to roll you up again
and pack you away in the trunk, though your great and good friend
Breda so strongly remonstrated against it. He also varnished and put
you in a frame for mere love.

I did come in on an open wagon last night, and was from seven
till one o'clock - - six hours - - coming a little more than three miles.
You who love so to ride fast would die to go at this rate. I could walk
much faster; but then, how transport my little trunk and the picture ?

At length I yielded to the solicitations of Eleonora and Doris, and
opened the picture. No small labor, for, to secure it more perfectly,
I had covered it with cartridge paper, sealed down to the edge of the
box, and over that the lid tied by a hundred cords. It was in perfect
order and was greatly admired. Of course, a thousand questions
about you. The girls did it up again without my aid.

The common fuel is turf, which is very pleasant for stoves, and so
very cheap that Mr. L. who has a large family and a house as big as
six of yours at the Oaks, told me that his fuel cost him but 12 louis
(about $50.00) per annum.

The "Oaks' was the name of Theodosia's resi-
dence at Georgetown, South Carolina.

Oh, I forget to tell my dear little Gampy; he would have jumped
out of his skin to see it; such a family and such music, but I must
give him the particulars. The principal personages were: 1, a jackass;
2, two monkeys dressed in regimentals, one in green, the other in
scarlet; 3, an enormous bear; 4, drummer and bagpiper. But they
did dance in such a style, and the monkeys played so many tricks to
the poor bear, and Mr. Bear did so growl, and Gamp did so laugh.
But I'll tell him all about it next time.

318 THEODOSIA

The Duke extremely gay. Having said that I had your picture,
after dinner he insisted that I should send for it, which was done by
one of the huissiers. You were exhibited and sufficiently admired.
His highness was quite gallant to you.

At 10 came in Mr. de Kunkel to thank me in the name of his high-
ness, and in his own, and make compliments, etc. I gave him yester-
day a small Swedish coin, having a good likeness of Gustavus IV,
which he gave to his highness, and whereupon they had the politeness
to set great value. It is one of Gampy's collections, but I have the
like or would not have given it to any Prince or Princess in Europe.

The Duke perfectly amiable; renewed the subject of your picture;
found a great deal of fault with the painter. He has taste and skill
in all the fine arts. In the original, said he, there must be dignity,
majesty, gentleness, sensibility — all discernible in the picture, but
imperfectly expressed; would leave a copy if there were time; promised
to send him one.

I much wished for your sake to have visited the old Chateau of
Wartzbourg, which is on the summit of the mountain overhanging
this town. You can imagine nothing more romantic than the site.
It has been famous in story more than 300 years. It is a fine ruin,
but part habitable and inhabited.

Think to buy you a dictionary and something for Gampy to be
sent to Hamburg.

At the time of writing, Colonel Burr was in Frank-
fort, Germany.

The supper elegant and the guests extremely gay. Somehow, I
thought more of Mary Ann than of all present.

As previously noted, Mary Ann was a name given
by Burr to his daughter.

To Madame Vandervelten, our cousin. Yesterday sent for her
to inspect the picture, about which many pretty things were said.

To Vanderlyn, with whom I left the picture to be put into the hands
of an engraver.

[ HER FATHER IN EXILE 319

At this time, Colonel Burr was in Paris.

The Critical Dictionary of Synonyms, not pretending to be a com-
plete dictionary of the language, in three volumes, may, at the same
time, be had for 36 francs. The last two I shall buy for you, and the
new edition of the dictionary. But how they are to be got out to you,
is a circumstance not yet foreseen, all commerce on both sides being
prohibited.

Went to the medal mint to see for medals for Gampy, but had
no success.

Thence home and to the Imperial Library to see Haase, who prom-
ised to aid me about medals. What running I have had about that
little rascal's medals! Haase conducted me through the departments
of engravings and manuscripts; showed me the most ancient Greek
and Latin which are of the fourth century; the original love-letters
of Henry IV, some by Charlemagne, etc. ISo medals can be had there
but antiques and those in sulphur — too fragile and too dull to suit
Gampy. I got, however, an address to one whom, it is said, something
in this way may be had. But my reputation is gone. Everywhere
announced as a numismatician. I shift it all on you. It is you and
not me who are scientific in medals.

At ten came in Madame Paschaud's clerk to see about packing
up your books. I was astonished to see the mass when put together.
At least four cubic feet. But, alas, the greater part worthless stuff
which has been imposed on me in different places. We resolved, at
length, to transport the whole to Paschaud's and there have the in-
ventory and the packing.

Now, madame, shall tell you a secret. Despairing of any success
in my project, a few days ago asked passport to go to the United
States, which was refused. Asked one to go to Rouen, to see M'e
Langworthy, which was granted, to circulate for a year, which was
more than I asked or wanted. Was told that I could not have a pass-
port to go out of the empire. Here I am a State's prisoner, and almost
without a cent.

Sportsmen shoot ducks and their dogs jump out of the boat, swim
to the killed duck and bring him on board. How Gampy would
laugh and stare.

320 THEODOSIA

Forgot to say that I had yesterday a letter from Liming 's father,
very amiable, and to-day another from our cousin, John Gotleib Burr,
giving the history of his family, which will give me some trouble to
translate and then to reply in German. You did not know before I
told you, and I have not told you yet, huzzy, that you are a Dutchman.
But alas, in my affairs, no passport, no advance, no money.

Good evening, dear Theodosia!

Yesterday, no, it was Tuesday, the weather changed, and it is now
so cold that I should be glad of a fire, but to that there are great objec-
tions, for what would become of the fifty plays, and of something, I
won't tell you what, which I meditate to buy for Gampillo, that will
make his heart kick.

Observe how very reasonable and sage I have been for ten days.
I never spend a livre that I do not calculate what pretty thing I might
have bought for you and Gampillo; hence my economy.

To Gris wold's where I took a second breakfast. He let me have
2,000 francs, about $333, for which I gave a receipt, containing a
request for you to pay it in case I should not pay it within a year.
This will enable me to get to America, if I should ever get a passport.
Passed two hours with G. You know I always thought he had one
of the most acute, logical heads of our country.

It is known that all foreign letters go to the police for examination.
If you have written me, your letter has not been delivered. Per-
haps you had a few words of cipher; if so, I shall never see it.

Home to write, but could send you nothing, not knowing a single
person in Philadelphia to whom I could trust a parcel to you.

Have laid out a louis in grammars, dictionaries, and some other
books, for which expense I console myself they will be useful to you
and Gampillo. Wrote you another letter, and one to Hosack, with a
parcel for each of you, and went to Vanderlyn's with them. He went
to Warden's, who, learning that the letters and parcels were from me,
would not take them.

Thence to Quai de Voltaire, where I bought three little books of
Spanish dialogues, for I am resolved to read the language, and besides,
they will do for you and Gampillo

f HER FATHER IN EXILE 321

Was this morning at Le Doux's to look at watches for self and
Gampillo. Self, I think, will not get one.

I have been reading two hours in Cabanis. It is, I think, of all
the books which I have bought for you, that which will afford you
the most satisfaction. It is exactly in your line, being at once medical
and philosophical; and so, good night.

Off again to Vanderlyn's before breakfast. He was just getting
up (9 o'clock); has become a little lazy. He promised me a copy of
your picture, which has been in his hands for the purpose now five
months. For the last four he has not touched it.

I live very temperately and take moderate exercise, and have no
fatigue of mind, except when I think of your being in those vile swamps.

Have I told you that Due de Alberg says if I can get a certificate
from the American consul, I shall have no further difficulty about a
passport ? Hence my application to Mr. Russell and to McRae. If
the latter answers insolently, the only revenge I will take, for revenge,
you know, is not in my nature, will be to publish his letter.

Bought you twelve volumes of different things (octavos) for 14
livres. Think I will buy you no more, except a few plays and some
pretty books for Gampillus.

To-morrow will come the wash-woman for 4 francs 10 sous. I
shall be obliged to sacrifice some of the nice little pieces which I in-
tended to keep for Gampillo.

Alas! my lame foot has already cost me a louis in cab hire and
medicaments. What pretty things that louis would have bought for
Gampillo.

Some time ago, Madame R., showing me her jewels, seemed par-
ticularly pleased with a and ear-ring of Italian sculpture out of

conch shell. Of course, I admired them. To-day she made them a
present to you. I declined as long as I could, for though they are
pretty as curiosities, they are things not for you to wear. Still, they
are very pretty to stare at and so you shall have them.

The dinner cost 7 francs, and lost a cambric handkerchief. Not

322 THEODOSIA

one of yours, they were all sold, you know, in Stockholm, except four
which I have yet.

Casting about for ways and means, no one occurred to me but
that of robbing poor little Gampy. I opened his little treasure of coins
and medals to see what could be spared, and finally seized one Spanish
dollar (thaler) of Charles VII, and two Swedish thalers of Gustavus IV.
With these I went off to a changeur, who gave me 5 francs, 5 sous each,
making in the whole 15 francs 15 sous.

Forgot to tell you that I did on Thursday rob Gampy of another
Swedish coin, to pay my woman-grocer for the cheese.

Played an hour Wolves and Sheep with Valkenaer, and he beat me
every game. It is a charming game for Gampy, and I will teach it to
him and Gampilla (Theodosia).

Vanderlyn has not sent the picture to Fen wick. The lazy dog!
But he is about to model your head in plaster, which if he does, shall
forgive him many sins.

At five to Madame Fenwick's to dine tete-a-tete, as usual. Your
picture was there and you were the principal topic. She thinks it
worth a voyage to America to see you, and I told her I had written
you that it was worth a voyage to France to see her.

Yesterday was cold, and to-day colder. Quite winter; the gutters
are all frozen up hard. Put on my flannel waistcoat this morning,
as I wear no surtout, for a great many philosophic reasons; principally
because I have not got one. The old great-coat which I brought
from America still serves in travelling if I should ever again travel.
Happy New Year, mother and Gampy! Ah! I catched you both!
The clock is now striking 12. (December 31st, 1810.)

Madame, the business is to show him your portrait, and to know
for how much I can have it enamelled on a watch. Also that of Gamp,
to enamel on another watch, to replace the lost Lepine.

Now, if I can get a passport to Bremen and Amsterdam, I will
send you a million of francs within six months; but one-half of it
must be laid out in pretty things. Oh, what beautiful things I will
send you! Gampillus, too, shall have a beautiful little watch, and
at least fifty trumpets of different sizes.

HER FATHER IN EXILE 323

To Hahn's, whom I took with me to Vanderlyn's to look at your
picture and estimate the expense of an enamelled copy in miniature,
to put on a watch for Gampy as soon as I get possession of my fortune.

Wrote you and mentioned sending some books for Gampy; but
when the letter was finished could not find the books. Sent the letter
without alteration, and you will think someone has stolen the books.

My dear Theodosia, I am sick at heart, having made the most
afflicting of all discoveries, the perfidy of a friend. A few days ago,
slight suspicion was excited in my mind, as you may recollect, but I
rejected it as unworthy of him and unworthy of me. It is confirmed
with every circumstance of aggravation. I had built on it the hopes
of my fortune. He pledged solemnly his honour to speak of it to no
one without my leave; not to take a step, but in concurrence with me,
on terms we had agreed. He went, I believe, the same day, disclosed
the whole, and associated himself with another to take it wholly from
me. The worthy object is irrevocably lost; for even if he should
repent, he cannot take back his lost communications. This man
first sought me under very peculiar circumstances; such as denoted
generosity of sentiment, sensibility, and independence of mind.

Why need I go to Paris? Indeed, I can't exactly tell you; but a
thousand nothings, of which, probably, the most important are to
buy Gampy some beautiful marbles and you some silk stockings.

What a pity that I have not 50 guineas to buy you lace here. Oh,
what a quantity you would have!

Again and again I pray you to recollect that this is not a journal to
read, but mere notes from which to talk or speak, like a lawyer. It is
my brief, from which I shall make you and Gampillo many and many
a speech.

But Burr was destined never to see either daughter
or grandson.

At 3 took Vanderlyn to the enameller's. He will make a horrid
thing, and I fear you will be little pleased, except with my endeavours
to please you.

Gampillo's letters are all lost. A greater loss to me than the works

324 . THEODOSIA

of Menander or Tacitus. My dear Theodosia. how well you write.
You must write a book. I have got the subject, but have no time to
talk of this now.

Bought Gampy a pretty seal, on which I will have his initials en-
graved. Bought you also six pretty stones for seals or rings. All 10
francs.

Have got my passport. Shall go to-morrow. Have your watch.
Have brought you nothing, nor for my poor, dear little Gamp. Shall
bring you nothing but myself.

I have paid the Captain 480 guilders, which is equal to about 50
louis. But how did I raise this ? The reply contains a dreadful
disclosure. I raised it by the sale of all my little meubles and loose
property. Among others, alas! my dear little Gamp's. It is shock-
ing to relate, but what could I do ? The Captain said it was impos-
sible to get out of town without 500 guilders. He had tried every
resource and was in despair. The money must be raised, or the
voyage given up. So, after turning it over and looking at it, and open-
ing it, and putting it to my ear like a baby, and kissing it, and begging
you a thousand pardons out loud, your dear, little beautiful watch
was — was sold. I do assure you - - but you know how sorry I was.
If my clothes had been saleable, they would have gone first, that's
sure. But heighho! when I get rich I will buy you a prettier one.

On September 16, 1811, Burr arrived at Amster-
dam. The vessel upon which he sailed from that city
was captured by a British frigate, and the passengers
were taken to Yarmouth, in England.

Behold my destiny accomplished! I am going to Africa. When
shall I see you, my dear children? But will wait for a reply to my
letter before going.

It is already within a few days of six months since I left Paris on
my way to the United States and then believing I should see you in
six weeks, and now, on the 14th December, am farther from you
than I was on the 14th of July.

The moment of my arrival in London, shall sell all my books,

HER FATHER IN EXILE 325

your books, poor little Gampillo; and all my clothes, save two shirts,
and put the thing in execution; and so soon as I get this million, Lord!
What pretty things I shall buy for thee and Gampillo! Laid out,
however, a great deal of money last night. Thought of the faithful
in the United States.

This is Christmas eve. I have no compliments to make or receive
in this country, and you are probably at Oaks with Gampillo and
as little annoyed with visits as myself. Merry Christmas! The
clock strikes 12. The cries of watchmen; are now ringing small bells
and repeating something which, by the cadence, is verse; but though
I have opened my windows, I cannot distinguish a word.

After hunting an hour for something to sell, particularly for the
diamond watch, could not find it, but found six suit of ribbons which
I had bought for you at Palais Royal; in all twenty-eight yards. After
gazing at them, and painting to myself the pleasure they would give,
as being my taste and evidence of my recollection in all places, I re-
luctantly resolved to sell them if I could get $50.00. They cost $70.00
but they are pretty and here new.

D. M. R. left the ribbons with a lady of fashion who was charmed
with them, and he thinks he will get more than $50.00. If so, I hope
you will not regret the robbery nor condemn. Don't think, Gampillo,
that you are to escape. I have serious thoughts of offering in the
lump the residue of your coins and medals. Trash, indeed, but here
happens to be a medal-monger who may value such trash, and if he
should offer 10 guineas they are gone — gone.

The ship Vigilant, which was captured by the
British frigate, was finally released by the British
government. Colonel Burr had paid his fare to
America on this vessel, but the United States consuls
at London and Yarmouth ordered the Captain of
the Vigilant not to accept Burr as a passenger, and
threatened the Captain with the displeasure of the
United States government if he disobeyed.

I hasten to tell you, my dear Theo, that I am perfectly well, for I
know how impatient you are to hear.

326 THEODOSIA

Burr still made an effort to secure passage on the
Vigilant, but he did not wish to go to New Orleans.
He wrote in his Journal:

I have strong objections to going to New Orleans, yet no alterna-
tive is seen but that of staying here. If I should think of residing
permanently here, I could find the means of support, but I prefer to
have my throat cut nearer you.

Every arrival makes me sad to reflect that I can have no letters,
having interdicted you from writing. How many things have hap-
pened to you! I have often the most gloomy apprehensions.

I am pretty sure that my hostess has no suspicion of the state of
the treasury, for on coming in I find a stock of coal and wood bought
this day.

Got some things out of my trunk for sale, namely, half a piece of
cambric which I had sealed up for you, and resolved to keep through
thick and thin; but everything visible must go, or I shall lose the
opportunity of this ship; and, as every day's delay diminishes my
means, the longer I stay, the less likely am I to ever get out.

To Joyce's for the ring-watch; not done. That trinket must get
me off, and yet I fear the ship will go before I get it.

To Joyce's, the watchmaker. Be assured he means to swindle me
horribly. Said the ring-watch cannot be done in 10 days.

To Joyces', the watchmakers; two brothers, twin knaves. Nothing
done. They told me twenty lies about the great difficulty of getting
a glass. The watch is taken to pieces and I am wholly in their power.
They mean to swindle me out of two or three guineas for doing nothing,
and what is worse, I shall not get possession of the thing in time to aid
me off. . . . After dinner went again to Joyce's. They told me the
same lies over again about breaking six glasses, etc., but will fix no
time when I can have it. It was with difficulty I forebore to call them
rascals to their faces; but then they would undoubtedly spoil it with
malice.

R. M. had sold the remnant of cambric for a guinea a yard and
gave me 10 pounds. I then put into his hands eight handkerchiefs

' HER FATHER IN EXILE 327

of the same cambric to dispose of, being also those which had been
folded up, sealed, and addressed to you. The ribbons and coins not
yet sold, but he has hopes. Thus am I obliged to plunder you and
Gampillo to the very last article.

After much inquiry found in this neighborhood a person who
grinds glasses for watches. Gave him the form of the glass required
for the ring-watch. He said he would make one for two shillings,
and that I could have it to-morrow morning; but it was necessary
he should have the watch to take exactly the form and size. And the
Joyces have kept me 13 days, pretending the amazing difficulty of
getting a glass of that form; that their workman has made as many
essays but can't succeed. Shall go to-morrow morning and make
another attempt to get it out of his hands, but almost despair, and am
sure of a most exorbitant charge. The great watchsellers and the
venders of manufactures of all sorts do nothing themselves or at their
own houses. All the nice work is done by starved wretches who live
in dens and garrets. None of these venders will on any account give
you the address of one of these workmen. No, they themselves will
get it done for you, and then charge from four to ten times the cost.

To Joyce's. Got the ring- watch, but did not get the bill. . . . To
Godwin's and left the ring-watch with Madame for sale.

To Kynaston's, the glass-grinder, to get something done to a re-
peater. He could not do it. ... It is he who is employed by the
Joyces, and about whom they told me so many lies. They paid him
1 shilling, 6 pence.

Shall not write you again in London. Shall be too busy to think
of you. No, that's a lie. Shall think of nothing else but you and
Gampillo. It is you that animate and impel me.

It does not seem possible for me to go out without 20 pounds more,
and I do not yet see where a shilling of it is to come from. Have
again sent out the ring-watch by Graves, who is to try what can be
done with it. Yet don't be discouraged, my children, for I will go.

How very awkward would be my position if the Aurora would sail
without me. Without a rag of clothes or a penny of money, or any-

328 THEODOSIA

thing to make money of (Yes, the ring-watch, Graves could do nothing
with it) I should be truly as a philosopher or as a pilgrim.

Off to Graves's to see about the Captain's movements. He had
gone, actually gone, and left word that I must be at Gravesend to-
morrow at noon, the hour the tide serves, or lose my passage. The
case was now nearly desperate, 20 pounds being the very least sum
that would clear me out. . . . Everything must go or I must stay.
Every resource had now failed. Resolved on a desperate and humili-
ating experiment. Went direct to Reeves, and told him that the ship
was gone to Gravesend, and that I must lose my passage unless I
could have 20 pounds. Without a word of reply he drew a check of
20 pounds, and how I did gallop across the park to the banker's to
get my 20 pounds. The first money I laid out was to buy four half
eagles and one doubloon, together amounting to $36, about 8 pounds,
7 shillings, so that on landing in America I might be able to get to you,
or wherever else it might be my destiny to go. This disabled me
from taking your picture-watch, so that after all the trouble and
money the toy has cost me, I shall not have the pleasure of offering it
to you.

Mr. and Mrs. Godwin would not give me their account, which
must be 5 or 6 pounds; a very serious sum to them; but they say that
when I succeed in the world, they will call on me for help.

And now at 12, having packed up my little residue of duds, into
that same unfortunate little sack, and stowed my scattering papers
into my writing case, I repose, smoking my pipe, and contemplating
the certainty of escaping from this country, the certainty of seeing
you. Those are my only pleasing anticipations. For as to my re-
ception in my own country, so far as depends on the government, if
I may judge from the conduct of their agents in every part of Europe,
I ought to expect all the efforts of the most implacable malice. This,
however, does not give me a moment's uneasiness. I feel myself
able to meet and repel them. My private debts are a subject of some
little solicitude; but a confidence in my own industry and resources
does not permit me to despond, not even to doubt. If there be nothing
better to be done, I shall set about making money in every lawful
way. . . . My great and only real anxiety is for your health. If
your constitution should be ruined, and you become the victim of

HER FATHER IN EXILE 329

disease, I shall have no attachment to life or motive to exertion.
My next will be from on board ship, unless she should be gone, and
then it will be most likely from some jail.

Really on board, my children, and thus far on my way to you.
But what a job it has been! (Before leaving London) called and
passed an hour at Godwin's. That family does really love me.
Fanny, Mary and Jane, also little William; you must not forget, cither,
Hannah Hopgood, the painter. . . . Graves found a man who ofl'ere.l
to put me on board for 2 guineas, and to return one guinea if the .ship
should be found within 12 miles. ... I embarked just after sunset.
the wind was strong at Southwest and very chilling. I had no great-
coat and was nearly perished. Got down the twelve miles, and heard
that the ship was at least ten miles lower down. On promises of some
grog got the boatman to stop at a little tavern on the riverside to warm
myself. . . . Found a good fire and a good dish of tea.

Bought a bundle of straw for 9 pence, which took on board our
little wherry, and made me a bed in the bottom of the boat. The
boatmen lent me their greatcoats, which I had not before thought to
ask, and I found myself well secured against the chilling winds. In
five minutes I was sound asleep, and was unconscious of anything
till I was waked to get into the Aurora, just at midnight, having come
about 27 miles in this open boat. After some parleying, I got off
for three guineas, being exactly all I had.

The Davis edition of the Journal contained, in
addition to Colonel Burr's entries therein, 317 letter-,
of which Burr wrote 201 and received 100. lie
wrote many more, and received many more, during
his stay in Europe, but these are the ones selected by
Davis as being the most intimately connected with
the text of the Journal. He wrote 35 letters to
Theodosia and received 16 from her. Many of
her letters to him were lost at sea, or were never
delivered by the postal authorities, for if found t<>
contain writing in cipher they were promptly con-
fiscated and destroyed, as they are in Russia at the

330 THEODOSIA

present time. Of the 176 written by Burr, 131 were
to men, and 45 to women; of the 90 received by him,
73 were from men, and 17 from women. Of the
whole number, 317, he wrote or received fully two
thirds while in England, but his Journal was much
fuller and more interesting as regards the other
countries, particularly Germany. The Bixby edi-
tion contains no correspondence, but the entries in
the Journal count up to 300,000 words, or what
would make a printed compass equivalent to three
popular novels of to-day.

To dispel forever the erroneous and ignorant
statements, some of them manifestly malicious,
about Colonel Burr's social ostracism in Europe, it
is only necessary to mention the names of those with
whom he corresponded or met personally during his
absence from the United States. This has never
been done in a manner to reach the great reading
public, and in justice to Colonel Burr, such a sum-
mary, made as brief as possible, is demanded, and is
here given.

Among his European correspondents and personal
friends or acquaintances were: Colonel Charles
Williamson, the brother of David Williamson (after-
wards Lord Balgray, in the Scotch peerage) ; Mrs. A.
Prevost, a relative of his wTife; Mr. Canning, of the
British Ministry; Lord Mulgrave; Jeremy Bentham;
Dr. Joseph Moore; Fuseli the painter; Mr. Mallet,
the Misses Mallet, and Mme. Achaud, relatives of
his wife; Governor Franklin (son of Benjamin
Franklin); Lord Bridgewater (Egerton, Earl of
Bridgewater) ; Dr. Lettsome, a cultivated English
physician (consulted concerning Theodosia's illness) ;

HER FATHER IN EXILE 331

George Chalmers, the author; Sir Andrew Grant;
Sir Mark A. Gerard, and Captain Percival of the
marines; Sir Samuel Romilly; Baron D'Arabit and
sister; Dawe, the painter; General Picton; General C.
Hope, of the War Office; Baron Norton; Captain
Charles Smith ; Baron Montalbert ; Lieutenant Colonel
William Prevost and wife; William Godwin, the author,
former husband of Mary Wollstonecraft, but now
married to the Widow Clement; Charles Lamb, the
"Gentle Elia"; William and Mrs. Johnstone of Alva
House, near Stirling, Scotland; Mrs. Gordon, of
Craig ; Mr. Alexander Young, of Edinburgh ; General
Alexander Hope; while at Edinburgh, Alexander
McKenzie, the author, Walter Scott (afterwards Sir
Walter Scott) who had just published 'Marmion,"
Colonel Alexander Munro, the Rev. Mr. Morehead,
Sir William Feltus, Lord Hopetoun, Lord Dundas, the
Duchess of Gordon, Lady Jane Montague, Lord
Montfort, Captain McDowall, Baron Hepburne, Sir
A. McKenzie, Governor Houston, Judge Hume,
Lord WTebb Seymour, and Sir William Strickland.

Again in London: Mrs. M. J. Godwin; Lord
Liverpool ; Baron de Brinkmann ; Miss Ann William-
son (daughter of Colonel Charles Williamson).

In Sweden: Captain Nordenskold, of the Swedish
Navy; Professor Gahn; Baron Mancke; Baron Arm-
felt ; M. Wennerquist, a wealthy banker ; Professor Arnt ;
Baron Wrangle; Rev. Mr. Catteau; Baron de Morner;
the Swedish Regent; Countess de Passe; Count-
ess Bunge; Countess Lovenkaupt; Mme. de Castre,
a singer; Breda, the first painter of Sweden, who told
him that a painted picture should always be rolled
with the paint outside; Countess Aurore de Gyllan-

332 THEODOSIA

stolpe, which Burr called ' ' a hard name for a beauti-
ful woman"; Baron Engerstrom; Baron d' Albedy'hll ;
Colonel Bergenstrala ; Professor Afzelius; Turnberg,
the naturalist; Professor Goslin; Mr. Larsclever
Husot, No. 36 nast Rdintmastarehuset vid Skepsbrouen
trappur upp. Burr says he lodged on Malmskild-
nadsgatan Street; Governor Willenstadt.

In Denmark: M. de Coningk, Counsellor of State;
Professor Ramus; Professor Garnberg.

In Germany: M. Bourrienne, the French Minister;
General Walderstoff; M. Lawacetz, Counsellor of
State ; President de Blucher; General Damasque; Mr.
Jacobson, an author and advocate ; Prof essor Ebeling;
Professor Rimarius, father of Mme. Sievekin; M. de
Chapeaurouge ; Mr. Verwaller Luning, a wealthy
mill owner, and his son Diedric, who was very
friendly to Colonel Burr; Mme. de Decken and her
daughter, the Baroness de Wangenheim; Mr. de
Spileker, lawyer; General la Salicette; Commander
General St. Simon; State Councillor Zimmermann;
Baron de Schale; Professor Heeren; M. de Marten,
author; Baron de Schrade; the Princess Caroline;
Baroness de Stein; Baroness d'Egglustein; Baroness
de Knebel, and Her Highness the Reigning Duchess,
and the Duchess , sister of the Emperor Alex-
ander, and the Hereditary Prince, and finally, the
Reigning Duke; the Countess de Peyster; Princess
Marie, of Russia; Wieland, poet and author; Goethe,
the great German author; another visit to Goethe,
the author of "Faust"; at Erfurth, the French Gov-
ernor was named De Visme - - Colonel Burr's sister-
in-law, half-sister to Mrs. Theodosia Prevost Burr,
was named De Visme; Baron de Salish: Duke of

I HER FATHER IN EXILE 333

Gotha; the Princess Louise, afterwards mother of
Emperor William of Germany - at that time in
her tenth year- -Burr says 'Very handsome";
Baron de Tummel; Bernard de Linderau, astron-
omer and mathematician; L'Electrice de Hesse, nee
Princess de Dannemare; Gallati, professor of his-
tory; Baron de Falkenberg, 83, and prime minister;
A bouquet of her own drawing, a 'souvenir' from
the Princess Louise ; Baron Strick ; at Eisenach
the bouquet came back from the Princess Louise,
with a name and date added as requested by Colonel
Burr; Baroness de Dalwigk; Baron de Beckholsheim ;
Baron de Goeckhausen; General Letocq; Count de
Buste; Baron d'Ende and the Baroness; Baron de
Wallschmitt; Count de Rode; Count of Westphalia;
Prince Frederic of Hesse; General Meynier; Baron
Jean Bon St. Andre; John Conrad de Ron, a cousin
of Colonel Burr; Count de Volney, who had been
Colonel Burr's guest at Richmond Hill; Dr. Schlosser,
LL.D.; Mme. Vandervalten, his cousin.

At Paris, February 16, 1810: Duke de Cadore;
John Vanderlyn, his protege; Baron d'Alberg; while
at the theatre Fran9ais, Burr saw the Emperor
Napoleon, who came in during the third act of The
Barber of Seville," by Beaumarchais ; Count Louis;
General Vallance ; Jerome Bonaparte, King of \Vest-
phalia; J. Burr, Canon of the Collegiate Chapter of
Rheinfelden, in Germany, who claimed relationship
to Colonel Burr; Baron de Humboldt; Edward Gris-
wold, a rich American, a resident of Paris; Duke de
Bassano; Duke de Rovigo; Madame de Launey,
aunt of Bernardin St. Pierre. M. St. Pierre had two
children, Paul and Virginia; Count Pasquier; M.

334 THEODOSIA

t

Denon, who aided Burr in obtaining a passport by
bringing the matter to the attention of the Duke of
Bassano.

In England again he met or corresponded with his
old friends; among them Jeremy Bentham, Lord
Balgray, the Godwins, and many others whose names
have already been mentioned.

It would seem as though the perusal of this long
list of names, including so many of rank, would put
at rest forever the statements that during Burr's
residence in Europe he was an outcast, and lived a
life of seclusion and poverty. True, he was poor,
especially during his residence in Paris and the
second time in England, but he could have escaped
all this had it not been for the obstacles put in his
way by General Armstrong, Jonathan Russell, and
Samuel McRae. Armstrong even gave orders that
no messengers should receive packages which Burr
wished to send to America.

During his life in Europe, Colonel Burr was an
omnivorous reader; a list even of the books pur-
chased and read by him wrould fill pages of this
volume; he read law books in each country; scien-
tific works, books of travel, fiction, principally in the
French language, and also French comedies and
tragedies. He was a frequent visitor to the theatre
and opera, and on all fete days was an interested
observer of foreign customs, which he graphically
described in his Journal.

In each country visited, he made it a point to
visit all objects of historical interest near his line of
travel. This travel was done largely by post-chaise,
but by water when possible, the cost being much

HER FATHER IN EXILE 335

less. In Holland the slow-moving canal boat was
the chief medium for transportation. The voyage
from London to Boston, by sailing vessel, took from
March 27, 1812, to May 4, or 39 days.

During his exile his thoughts were ever of his
daughter and her health. He consulted the leading
English physicians; he made arrangements for her
to come to England for treatment. In his Journal
he wrote to her: "You will wear out. No, alas! you
perish joyless in those infernal swamps;' and again,
'Curse those South Carolina swamps." He carried
his daughter's portrait with him wherever he went,
and was ever ready to show it to appreciative friends.
On one journey he had the box which contained it
on his lap during a ride covering two hundred miles.

Whenever he had spare money in his pocket, and
just as often when he had little more than the price
of his board and lodging, he would buy watches,
books, and articles of dress for his daughter, and
books, toys, coins, and medals for his grandson.
On two occasions he had prospects of a fortune, and
the greatest happiness to be secured by its possession,
as he expressed it, would be his ability to buy presents
for his daughter and grandson.

He, undoubtedly, had some of the characteristics
of a spendthrift, but not the selfish ones. If he paid
high prices for anything to be used by himself, it
was because he was forced to such extravagant out-
lay. His personal wants were few, and his manner
of living, as regards food, very simple, often ab-
stemious.

He had many friends; those who have been named
form but few of the great number mentioned in his

336 THEODOSIA

Journal. He was ever in motion, often making a
dozen calls or visits in a day. To write in his Jour-
nal, which he considered was the same as writing to
his daughter, he considered a sacred duty, and after
a day of excitement he would pass the early hours of
the morning communing with her.

He failed in consummating any of the plans which
he had in mind when he sailed for England, and it is
well that he did. No matter how pure his motives,
no matter how great his sympathy for the down-
trodden inhabitants of the tyranny-ridden Spanish
American States of South America, anything with
which he was connected would have been called
intrigue or treason. Burr was a traitor because he
intended to invade and conquer Texas, but the man
who did it, years later, is immortalized, for one of the
cities bears his name. Burr was a traitor because
he contemplated the conquest of Mexico, but of the
men who accomplished it, years later, one was made
President of the United States and the other the
commanding general of its army.

Rarely does the inventor reap the full reward due
him for the labor of his head and hands ; seldom does
the instigator of human progress wear the crown of
achievement. He is pushed aside, when his ideas
become popular and therefore powerful, and others
reap the reward.

Of Burr it may be truthfully said, as of many
others who have lived before or since, that to him
came the glory of failure, although he had endeavored
well. From youth to old age, in whatever he under-
took, he was indefatigable, and by none can he be
deprived of "the victory of endurance born."

CHAPTER XIV

HER LAST VOYAGE

BURR has been widely criticised for saying * ' Law
is whatever is boldly asserted and plausibly
maintained.'1 Whether the criticism is just or not,
must, as Parton said, "be left to the lawyers." One
of the greatest of America's lawyers has since said,
in substance, that during his career he had often
found it more advantageous to know the judge than
the law. Moralists can compare the two opinions
and decide wrhich, to them, is the more obnoxious.
To paraphrase Burr's definition, it may be said that
history is what is stated by a recognized authority, and
then repeated by others without further investigation.

It would seem as though the port from which
Theodosia sailed on her last voyage, the name of the
vessel, and the kind, were points that could be easily
determined, and be presented in school books, his-
tories, biographies, and newspapers with uniformity;
but it is not so. Nearly all writers say that the
vessel sailed from Charleston, South Carolina; the
vessel's name is variously given as the Pilot and
the Patriot, while the boat itself is called a packet,
a pilot boat, a privateer, a schooner, or a sloop, while
by many it is vaguely termed 'a vessel."

There is ho good reason for contrariety or vague-
ness. The vessel was a pilot boat that had been a

337

338 THEODOSIA

privateer; its name was ' The Patriot," and the port
of embarkation was Georgetown, South Carolina,
and not Charleston. These points are established
beyond the possibility of successful contradiction by
letters written to Colonel Burr by Timothy Green
and Theodosia's husband. There is unanimity as to
the date of sailing, December 30, 1812.

Timothy Green was an uncle of Hon. Andrew H.
Green, known as "the father of Greater New York,"
who was assassinated, by mistake, several years ago,
at the doorway of his residence in New York City.
In a letter of date March 17, 1902, the Hon. Andrew
H. Green wrote: "It was Timothy Green, my uncle,
who left Charleston ( ?) with Mrs. Alston (Theodosia
Burr) and who was, as is supposed, lost at sea. The
story goes that the vessel on which they sailed was cap-
tured by pirates, and they were compelled to walk the
plank. This Timothy Green was the son of Dr. John
Green the 1st, of Green Hill, in Worcester, Massachu-
setts, and a grandson of Brigadier- General Timothy
Ruggles, and a direct descendant of Governor Thomas
Dudley, of the Colony of Massachusetts. He left his
native place in the last part of the last century, and for
many years was a resident of the City of New York."

Mr. Timothy Green was a friend of Colonel Burr,
and at the latter's solicitation agreed to go to South
Carolina and accompany Mrs. Alston to New York.
Two letters from Mr. Green to Colonel Burr estab-
lish the intended date of sailing, the kind of boat,
and the port of departure.

CHARLESTON, S. C., December 7, 1812.

I arrived here from New York on the 28th ult., and on the 29th
started for Columbia. Mr. Alston seemed rather hurt that you should

HER LAST VOYAGE 339

conceive it necessary to send a person here, as he or one of his brothers
would attend Mrs. Alston to New York. I told him that you had some
opinion of my medical talents; that you had learned your daughter
was in a low state of health, and required unusual attention, and
medical attention, on her voyage; that I had torn myself from my
family to perform this service for my friend. He said that he was
inclined to charter a vessel to take her on. I informed him that I
should return to Charleston, where I should remain a day or two,
and then proceed to Georgetown (S. C.) and wait his arrival.

GEORGETOWN, S. C., December 22, 1812.

I have engaged a passage to New York for your daughter in a pilot-
boat that has been out privateering, but has come in here, and is re-
fitting merely to get to New York. My only fears are that Governor
Alston may think the mode of conveyance too undignified, and object
to it; but Mrs. Alston is fully bent on going. You must not be sur-
prised to see her very low, feeble, and emaciated. Her complaint is an
almost incessant nervous fever. We shall sail in about eight days.

Her husband waited a fortnight, and hearing no
word of his wife's arrival in New York, he sent a
letter to her, and four days later he wrote her again.
Before that, her fate, whatever it was, had been
decided.

COLUMBIA, S. C., January 15, 1813.

Another mail, and still no letter! I hear, too, rumours of a gale
off Cape Hatteras the beginning of the month! The state of my
mind is dreadful. Let no man, wretched as he may be, presume to
think himself beyond the reach of another blow. I shall count the
hours till noon to-morrow. If I do not hear then, there will be no
hope till Tuesday. To feelings like mine, what an interval! May
God grant me one word from you to-morrow. Adieu. All that I
have left of heart is yours. All my prayers are for your safety and
well-being.

January 19, 1813.

Forebodings! wretched, heart-rending forebodings distract my
mind. I may no longer have a wife; and yet my impatient restless-
ness addresses her a letter. To-morrow will be three weeks since our

340 THEODOSIA

separation, and yet not one line. Gracious God! for what am I re-
served ?

When Mr. Alston wrote to his wife on January 19,
he also addressed a letter to Colonel Burr, being at
that time at Columbia, the State capital. On Jan-
uary 31 he wrote to his father-in-law, from Charleston:

COLUMBIA, January 19, 1813.

To-morrow will be three weeks since, in obedience to your wishes,
Theodosia left me. It is three weeks, and yet not one line from her.
My mind is tortured. I wrote you on the 29th ult., the day before
Theo sailed, that on the next day she would embark in the privateer
Patriot, a pilot-boat-built schooner, commanded by Captain Over-
stocks, with an old New York pilot as sailing-master. The vessel
had dismissed her crew, and was returning home with her guns under
deck. Her reputed swiftness in sailing inspired such confidence of a
voyage of not more than five or six days, that the three weeks without
a letter fill me with an unhappiness — a wretchedness I can neither
describe nor conquer. Gracious God! Is my wife, too, taken from
me ? I do not know why I write, but I feel that I am miserable.

CHARLESTON, January 31, 1813.

A call of business to this place for a few days occasioned your
letter of the 20th not to be received till this morning. Not a moment
is lost in replying to it. Yet wherefore ? You ask of me to relieve
your suspense. Alas! It was to you I looked for similar relief. I
have written you twice since my letter of December 29th. I can add
nothing to the information then given. I parted with our Theo near
the bar about noon on Thursday, the last of December. The wind
was moderate and fair. She was in the pilot-boat-built schooner
Patriot, Captain Overstocks, with an experienced New York pilot,
Coon, as sailing-master. This vessel, the same which had been sent
by government last summer in pursuit of Commodore Rodger's squad-
ron, had been selected as one which, from her reputed excellence and
swiftness in sailing, would ensure a passage of not more than five or
six days. From that moment I have heard nothing of the schooner
nor my wife. I have been the prey of feelings which you only can
imagine. When I turned from the grave of my boy, I deemed myself

[ HER LAST VOYAGE 341

no longer vulnerable. Misfortune had no more a blow for me. I was
wrong. It is true I no longer feel; I never shall feel as I was wont;
but I have been taught that there was still one being in whom I was
inexpressibly interested. I have in vain endeavored to build upon
the hope of long passage. Thirty days are decisive. My wife is
either captured or lost. What a destiny is mine! And I live under it,
engage in business, appear to the world as though all was tranquil,
easy. 'Tis so, but it cannot endure. A short time since and the
idea of capture would have been the source of painful, terrible appre-
hension; it now furnishes me the only ray of comfort, or rather of
hope, that I have. Each mail is anticipated with impatient, yet fear-
ful and appalling anxiety. Should you hear aught relative to the ob-
ject of this, our common solicitude, do not, I pray, forget me.

Nearly a month passed by ; tidings had been sought
from Bermuda and Nassau, but no reassuring words
had come. In New York the anxious father stood
upon the Battery, his eyes fixed upon the wide ex-
panse of water, hoping against hope that each fresh
sail that bore in sight belonged to the little craft that
bore the beloved of his life. Another heart, in the
South land, was near to breaking, and the one in
whose breast it was beating turned for sympathy
and condolence to the only one who could appre-
ciate his immeasurable loss. There is no more
pathetic letter in the language, none fuller of the
expression of intense grief, than the husband's of
February 25, to the equally disconsolate father:

February 25, 1813.

Your letter of the 10th, my friend, is received. This assurance of
my fate was not wanting. Authentic accounts from Bermuda and
Nassau, as late as January 30, connected with your letter from New
York of the 28th, had already forced upon me the dreadful conviction
that we had no more hope. Without this victim, too, the desolation
would not have been complete. My boy — my wife — gone, both !
This, then, is the end of all the hopes we had formed. You may well

342 THEODOSIA

observe that you feel severed from the human race. She was the
last tie that bound us to the species. What have we left? In sur-
viving the 30th of June (the day on which his son died) I thought
I could meet all other afflictions with ease, yet I have staggered under
this in a manner that I am glad had not a witness. Your letter of
January 28 was not received till February 9. The Oaks, for some
months visited only at intervals, when the feelings the world thought
gone by were not to be controlled, was the asylum I sought. It was
there, in the chamber of my wife, where everything was disposed as
usual; with the clothes, the books, the playthings of my boy around
me, that I sustained this second shock, doubled in a manner that I
could not account for. My son seemed to have been reanimated, to
have been restored to me, and to have just perished again with his
mother. It was the loss of both pressing upon me at the same moment.

Should it be my misfortune to live a century, the 30th of June
and the 10th of February are so impressed upon my mind that they
will always seem to have just passed. I visited the grave of my boy.
The little plans we had all three formed rushed upon my memory.
Where now was the boy? The mother I cherished with so much
pride? I felt like the very spirit of desolation. If it had not been
for a kind of stupefaction and confusion of mind which followed, God
knows how I should have borne it. Oh, my friend, if there be such a
thing as the sublime of misery, it is for us that it has been reserved.

You are the only person in the world with whom I can commune
on this subject; for you are the only person whose feelings can have
any community with mine. You knew those we loved. With you,
therefore, it will be no weakness to feel their loss. Here, none know
them; none valued them as they deserved. The talents of my boy,
his rare elevation of character, his already extensive reputation for so
early an age, made his death regretted by the pride of my family;
but though certain of the loss of my not less admirable wife, they seem
to consider it like the loss of an ordinary woman. Alas! they knew
nothing of my heart. They never have known anything of it. After
all, he is a poor actor who cannot sustain his little hour upon the
stage, be his part what it may. But the man who has been deemed
worthy of the heart of Theodosia Burr, and who has felt what it was
to be blessed with such a woman's, will never forget his elevation.

The correspondence between father-in-law and son

HER LAST VOYAGE 343

was kept up during the summer of 1813, but no
word of cheer came to gladden their hearts. The
dread suspense was harder to bear than would have
been the saddening truth. In October, Colonel Burr
wrote to Mr. Alston, concerning his personal affairs,
such a communication evidently having been re-
quested :

NEW YORK, October 16, 1815.

I have found it so difficult to answer that part of your letter which
regards myself and my concerns, that it has been deferred though
often in my mind. At some other time I may give you, in detail, a
sketch of the sad period which has elapsed since my return. For the
present it will suffice to say that my business affords me a decent
support. If I had not been interrupted in the career which I began,
I should, before this, have paid all my debts and been at ease.

My old creditors (principally the holders of the Mexican debts)
came upon me last winter writh vindictive fury. I was held to bail
in large sums, and saw no probability of keeping out of prison for six
months. This danger is still menacing, but not quite so imminent.
I shall neither borrow nor receive from anyone, not even from you. I
have determined not to begin to pay unless I see a prospect of paying all.

Colonel Burr, although not actively engaged in
politics, took a great interest in them, not as regarded
any possible preferment for himself, but with the
hope that his son-in-law, who had been Governor of
South Carolina from 1812 to 1814, would become a
statesman of national calibre. Burr was naturally
opposed to the continuance in power of the Virginia
' dynasty," and he suggested that his son-in-law should
bring forward the name of General Jackson and es-
pouse his candidacy.

NEW YORK, November 20, 1815.

A congressional caucus will, in the course of the ensuing month,
nominate James Monroe for President of the United States, and will
call on all good republicans to support the nomination.

344 THEODOSIA

Whether we consider the measure itself, the character and talents
of the man, or the state whence he comes, this nomination is equally
exceptionable and odious.

I have often heard your opinion of these congressional nominations.
They are hostile to all freedom and independence of suffrage. A
certain junto of actual factitious Virginians, having had possession of
the government for twenty-four years, consider the United States as
their property, and, by bawling "Support the Administration," have
so long succeeded in duping the republican public. One of their
principal arts, and which has been systematically taught by Jefferson,
is that of promoting state dissensions, not between republican and
federal - - that would do them no good - - but schisms in the repub-
lican party. By looking round you will see how the attention
of leading men in the different states has thus been turned from
general and state politics. Let not this disgraceful domination
continue.

Independently of the manner of the nomination and the location
of the candidate, the man himself is one of the most improper and in-
competent that could be selected. Naturally dull and stupid; ex-
tremely illiterate; indecisive to a degree that would be incredible to
one who did not know him; pusillanimous, and, of course, hypocritical;
has no opinion on any subject, and will be always under the govern-
ment of the worst men; pretends, as I am told, to some knowledge of
military matters, but never commanded a platoon, nor was ever fit
to command one. "He served in the Revolutionary W 'ar /" — that
is, he acted a short time as aide-de-camp to Lord Stirling, who was
regularly. . . . Monroe's whole duty was to fill his lordship's tankard,
and hear, with indications of admiration, his lordship's long stories
about himself. Such is Monroe's military experience. I was with
my regiment in the same division at the time. As a lawyer, Monroe
was far below mediocrity. He never rose to the honour of trying a
cause of the value of a hundred pounds. This is a character exactly
suited to the views of the Virginia junto.

To this junto you have twice sacrificed yourself, and what have
you got by it? Their hatred and abhorrence. Did you ever know
them to countenance a man of talents and independence ? Never —
nor ever will.

It is time that you manifested that you had some individual charac-
ter; some opinion of your own; some influence to support that opinion.

HER LAST VOYAGE 345

Make them fear you, and they will be at your feet. Thus far they
have reason to believe that you fear them.

The moment is extremely auspicious for breaking down this degrad-
ing system. The best citizens of our country acknowledge the feeble-
ness of our administration. They acknowledge that offices are bestowed
merely to preserve power, and without the smallest regard to fitness.
If, then, there be a man in the United States of firmness and decision,
and having standing enough to afford even a hope of success, it is your
duty to hold him up to public view; that man is Andrew Jackson.
Nothing is wanting but a respectable nomination, made before the proc-
lamation of the Virginia caucus, and Jackson's success is inevitable.

If this project should accord with your views, I could wish to see
you prominent in the execution of it. It must be known to be your
work. Whether a formal and open nomination should now be made,
or whether you should for the present content yourself with barely
denouncing, by a joint resolution of both houses of your legislature,
congressional caucuses and nominations, you only can judge. One
consideration inclines me to hesitate about the policy of a present
nomination. It is this - - that Jackson ought first to be admonished
to be passive: for, the moment he shall be announced as a candidate,
he will be assailed by the Virginia junto with menaces, and with in-
sidious promises of boons and favours. There is danger that Jackson
might be wrought upon by such practices. If an open nomination be
made, an express should be instantly sent to him.

This suggestion has not arisen from any exclusive attachment to
Jackson. The object is to break down this vile combination which
rules and degrades the United States. If you should think that any
other man could be held up with better prospect of success, name that
man. I know of no such. But the business must be accomplished,
and on this occasion, and by you. So long as the present system pre-
vails, you will be struggling against wind and tide to preserve a pre-
carious influence. You will never be forgiven for the crime of having
talents and independence.

Exhibit yourself then and emerge from this state of nullity. You
owe it to yourself, you owe it to me, you owe it to your country, you
owe it to the memory of the dead.

I have talked of this matter to your late secretary, but he has not
seen this letter.

A. BURR.

346 THEODOSIA

Your secretary was to have delivered this personally, but has
changed his course on hearing that Jackson is on his way to Washing-
ton. If you should have any confidential friend among the members
of Congress from your state, charge him to caution Jackson against
the perfidious caresses with which he will be overwhelmed at Wash-
ington. A. B.

Another communication, on the same subject, was
sent to Governor Alston about a month later.

NEW YORK, December 11, 1815.

A copy of the preceding went under cover to Dr. Wragg. Since
that date things are wonderfully advanced, as your secretary will
write or tell you. These will require a written message (letter) from
yourself and others (or yourself alone, but three names would look
more formal), advising Jackson what is doing; that communications
have been had with the Northern States, requiring him only to be
passive, and asking from him a list of persons in the Western states
to whom you may address your letters.

A. BURR.

But Joseph Alston was not destined to figure in
national politics. His heart was broken by the loss
of his son and wife. His burden was not of the kind
that could be lifted by engaging in a political contest.
His ambition was gone. He had no interest in the
future so far as the world was concerned. He had
lost what had made his life happy; his only thoughts
were of them; his only wish to go to them. His
reply to Colonel Burr's letter, which was so full of
incentive to action, shows the broken-spirited man

- sick in both mind and body.

CHARLESTON, February 16, 1816. ,

Your letter of the 20th of November, intrusted to Mr. Philips, was
received through the post ofiice about the middle of last month. It
was, of course, too late, had circumstances been ever so favourable,
to be acted upon in the manner proposed. Had it even been received,

HER LAST VOYAGE 347

however, in due season, it would have found me utterly incapable of
exertion. On my way to Columbia, in November, I had another severe
attack of illness, which rendered absolutely impracticable either the im-
mediate prosecution of my journey or my attendance during the session
of the legislature. As soon as I was able to bear the motion of a carriage,
I was brought by short stages to this place, where I have been confined
ever since. Yesterday was the first time for two months that I have
been out of the house. So much for the miserable remnant of myself.

With regard to the subject of your letter of the 20th of November,
I fully coincide with you in sentiment; but the spirit, the energy, the
health necessary to give practical effect to sentiment, are all gone.
I feel too much alone, too entirely unconnected with the world, to take
much interest in anything. Yet without the smallest solicitude about
the result, I shall certainly not fail to discharge my public duty, when-
ever the opportunity occurs, by giving a very strong and frank expres-
sion of my opinion on the subject suggested.

Vanderlyn, I perceive from the papers, has returned to New York.
Nothing, I trust, has prevented his bringing back the portrait (the
portrait of Theodosia) you left with him. Let me again entreat you
to use your influence with him in procuring me a good copy. I re-
ceived some days since, through the kindness of Mr. John B. Prevost,
a miniature, which appears to have been taken from Vanderlyn 's
portrait. The execution is good, but in expression it is by no means
equal to the portrait. There was a small portrait of Nathalie which
you took with you, of which, if Vanderlyn embraces that kind of
painting in his present plan, I should be glad also to obtain of him a
copy. The original picture, I think, was the best portrait I ever saw.

Yours affectionately,

JOSEPH ALSTON.

The double burden became too heavy to bear; on
September 10, 1816, Theodosia's husband died.
The news of his death was communicated to Colonel
Burr by the Governor's brother.

ROSEHILL, NEAR GEORGETOWN, October 4, 1816.

Sir:

It was enjoined on me, and my brother, John A. Alston, verbally,
by our late brother Joseph Alston, to send a certain trunk to you,

348 THEODOSIA

which he never had the courage to open, containing, as he said, some
things that belonged to your daughter Theodosia; and to send a cer-
tain collection of other articles (of dress, I believe) that had also been
hers, to the eldest daughter of Mr. J. B. Prevost. Pray point out the
way, sir, in which our trust is to be executed.

In his will, of which a copy will be sent you if desired, my brother
has given all demands up to you that he had against you.

Very respectfully,

WILLIAM A. ALSTON.

P. S. These are alone the words relating to you in the will: "To
my father-in-law, Aaron Burr, I give, devise, and bequeath all de-
mands I may have against him, whether by judgment or otherwise."

In a previous chapter it was stated that none of
the State papers of Governor Alston were now in
existence, or that they could not be found. The
text of two of them has, fortunately, come into the
possession of the writer. They appeared originally
in the Charleston, S. C., Courier, but were reprinted
in the United States Gazette of September 18, 1813.

(From the Charleston Courier)
GENERAL ORDERS

The late general orders of his excellency, governour Alston, having
excited an unusual degree of interest, we have procured a copy of them
for publication. The first order, dated on the 4th inst., directed the
assembling of a court martial, for the trial of certain of our fellow
citizens, under the rules and articles of war, as set forth in the opinion
of his honour judge Bay. The last appears to have been issued in
consequence of the decision of the honourable judge. We give them
to our readers without comment.

GENERAL ORDERS

HEADQUARTERS, CHARLESTON, Aug. 4, 1813.

The commander-in-chief has Itarned with surprize and deep con-
cern, that several of the city corps, called into actual service, by gen-
eral orders of the 28th May last, have refused to perform the duty

HER LAST VOYAGE 349

required of them. With surprize because the order for strengthening
the magazine guard, a measure so intimately and immediately con-
nected with the safety of Charleston, was predicted not only upon his
own conviction of its being necessary, but upon the strong and earnest
petition of the citizens themselves: with concern because while this
unsoldierlike shrinking from a light and trivial service affords a
wretched hope of better conduct on more arduous occasions, it holds
out an example of insubordination so fatal to the safety of the state,
as to justify the last degree of severity in suppressing it. Could the
Commander-in-chief be persuaded that the late disobedience of the
corps alluded to, had really resulted from a spirit of dissatisfaction or
mutiny, no consideration would prevent a recurrence to the proper
measures for the punishment of every individual implicated. The
means of punishment are within his reach. A call upon any militia
man places him in actual service - - actual service subjects him to
the rules and articles of war, under which disobedience of orders may
be punished, at the discretion of a court martial, even by death; and
the commander-in-chief flatters himself there will never be wanting
officers firm and prudent enough to inflict that punishment where it
shall be merited. Enlightened freemen, who know how to value the
liberty they enjoy in a state of peace, will know how essential to the
preservation of those liberties are the restrictions imposed by a state
of war. But the commander-in-chief will not dishonour any part
of the militia of Charleston by suspecting them to be deficient either
in patriotism or the qualities which constitute good soldiers. He will
not believe that, when properly called upon, any service to which
they have been made liable by representatives of their own choice,
will be refused. A transition from the habits of peace to the habits of
war, is a little difficult and he is convinced that, with the best intentions,
they have been deluded into the offence of disobedience of orders,
by designing, mischievous men, who have industriously circulated
among them the grossest misconstructions of the militia laws, and
by others, weak and credulous, who have been made to believe that
there exists no power to exact their services. The commander-in-
chief has moreover strong reason to believe that these misconstructions
of the law have derived additional strength from the apparent im-
punity extended to that part of the militia, with whom the late shame-
ful disobedience of orders commenced. But that courts martial
were not ordered instantly upon those so first offending, is attributable

350 THEODOSIA

solely to the neglect of the officer, upon whom the duty was devolved in
not making a prompt report of the case to headquarters. The proced-
ure will be forthwith corrected.

Impressed with these sentiments, persuaded that the corps reported
as guilty of disobedience of orders, have been actuated, not by any
spirit of dissatisfaction or mutiny, but merely by the erroneous con-
structions of law circulated among them, and that they have been
influenced, especially, by the unfortunate delay in bringing the first
offenders to trial, the commander-in-chief deems it sufficient to sub-
ject to punishment, which may be prescribed by a court martial,
those of the militia by whom was set the example of disobedience.
It is therefore ordered that Brigadier General Read take immediate
measures to have brought up for trial before a General Court Martial,
which will assemble at the Magazine on Charleston Neck, at 10 o'clock
A.M. on Monday next, the 9th inst., immediately after the said Court
shall have gone through with the trial of those of the Militia charged
with Disobedience of orders in not joining the late detachment under
Major Howard, the following persons, viz:

(Here follow the names of forty citizens, Members of the Ancient
Battalion of Artillery.)

Brig. Gen. Read is further ordered immediately to have arrested
the officer of the extra magazine guard, put on duty on the 18th July,
and the officer who commanded the extra guard, put on duty on the
21st July, both charged with deserting their posts, and to have them
for trial before the Court Martial above mentioned.

The Brig. Gen. will likewise immediately take measures to have
brought up for trial before the same court, those privates of the Re-
publican Artillery Company, put on duty at the magazine on 25th
July, and charged with deserting their posts.

Having so much to censure in the Charleston Regiments of the
7th Brigade, it is peculiarly gratifying to the commander-in-chief that
the same Regiments furnish some subjects of applause and recom-
mendation. In consequence of the refusal of the guard ordered out
on the 24th July to march, the following officers and privates hastened
to the Magazine, as volunteers, viz. :

(Here are inserted the names of certain officers and privates who
volunteered their services at the Magazine Guard.)

To his brother officers and soldiers who thus voluntarily stept
forth to redeem the honour of the militia, the commander-in-chief

HER LAST VOYAGE 351

takes pleasure in offering his warmest thanks and approbation. It is
on such men the hopes of South Carolina will rest in the hour of trial.
The troops who refused on that occasion, their services to their coun-
try, must be strangely constituted, if, when they beheld their officers
marching in the ranks, the sight did not rouse sensations of shame to
which any fatigues, any privations, any dangers would have been
preferable. The commander in chief mentions likewise with great
satisfaction the good conduct of Lieutenant Duke, commanding the
extra guard on the 25th July, and the privates from the Federalist
Artillery, and though they were not relieved for a considerable time
beyond the regular hour, remained at their posts with the zeal and
fidelity of patriotick soldiers. He cannot either omit to notice the
alacrity and readiness with which the "United Blues" and the "In-
dependent Greens" have entered upon the second tour of duty so
prematurely devolved upon them by the refusal of other corps to share
it.

In ordering a Court Martial upon the officers and privates herein
designated, the commander-in-chief has discharged a duty painful to
his private feelings, when he recollects to how severe a punishment
those persons have made themselves liable; mortifying to him as an
officer, when he recollects how much misconduct like theirs is cal-
culated to reflect upon the character of the militia. He sincerely
hopes there will occur no future necessity for a similar measure. En-
gaged in a war of which four-fifths of the citizens of this state have
repeatedly, collectively and individually, expressed their decided
approbation; in actual hostility with an enemy whose enormities are
sufficient to kindle enthusiasm in the heart of apathy itself, combating
not for doubtful rights, but for everything dear to freemen, it would
be a paradox indeed, if the coercion of law were necessary to stimulate
exertion.

In a government where all are equal, where the officer most ele-
vated in rank is amenable, in common with the subaltern, to the laws,
there can be little danger of abuses. The powers delegated by the
people to their servants are judiciously so limited that all the energies
of the constituted authorities are necessary to support a state of war.
The commander-in-chief therefore calls upon his brother soldiers to
regard with suspicion the man who shall seek to repress these energies
and weaken the hands to which have been committed the defence and
protection of the state. He calls upon their manly feelings and pa-

352 THEODOSIA

triotism to frown with indignation upon those who, under the pretence
of expounding the militia laws, are insidiously hazarding the safety
of the country by exciting murmurs and discontent. The first
duty of an officer and soldier is to obey — if the laws be violated in
the person of either, his country has provided the remedy.

That no militia man may be hereafter taken by surprise, the com-
mander-in-chief orders it to be made known that every disobedience
of an order from headquarters, requiring the service either of officer
or private, will subject the person guilty of it to an immediate trial
by court martial, under the rules and articles of war.

The brigade major and inspector of the seventh brigade is ordered
to furnish the judge advocate general with the names of all the per-
sons ordered to be tried, and the names of the necessary witnesses.
He will likewise attend and organize the court martial herein directed.

The judge advocate general will forthwith prepare charges in proper
form, and issue the necessary precepts. He will also attend the court
martial to be convened at the magazine on the 9th inst.

Brigadier general Read will forthwith extend copies of this general
order to the captains of the 28th and 29th regt. — the regt. of artillery,
and the regt. of cavalry, with orders that it be read at the head of every
company.

BY ORDER OF THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF.

GENERAL ORDERS

HEADQUARTERS, CHARLESTON, Aug. 23, 1813.

The construction given to the militia law of 1794, by the commander-
in-chief, by the judge advocate general, and by the attorney general,
it seems was wrong. The military system ordained by the legislature
for the regulation and good government of the troops, and on which
the state has hitherto delusively relied for protection and safety, has
been solemnly decided to be inoperative and nugatory; a mere rope
of sand. The laws which extend to every citizen protection, impose
no obligation of service in return. The executive has a right to order
a militiaman to take the field, but the militiaman has a right to stay
at home. Should any momentary impulse even induce the militia
to embody, there exists not the slightest authority to restrain irregu-
larity, or to punish misconduct, however fatal in its consequences.
Such has been the judicial decision.

Massachusetts and Connecticut while from a spirit of hostility to

HER LAST VOYAGE 353

the war and the administration, they refuse the aid of their militia
to the general government, do not scruple at least to avail themselves
of their militia in defending their own shores. South Carolina, less
solicitous about her safety, while she is ready to lend her militia to
the general government, or to a sister state, and is perfectly willing,
for the purpose of rendering them efficient, that in either service
they shall be subjected to the rules and articles of war, seems to
exact her services in her own defence by the smallest penalty - - deems
the slightest restraint upon them when in camp, incompatible with
the liberty of the citizen. Thus the militia man ordered into the field,
instead of being before the enemy, is before the judge on a writ of
habeas corpus. While the enemy are in sight of the city, at the very
moment the soil is actually invaded, and the citizens of an adjoining
parish plundered of their property, the militia of Charleston are
thronging the Court House, waiting in fearful solicitude, a decision
upon the question whether the services of a militia man can be exacted
or not.

Well, the question has been decided. The services of a militia
man cannot be exacted, however imperious the emergency. He who
refused to share the fate of his comrades at Thermopylae, lived only
to expiate his shame by a glorious death on a subsequent occasion.
The example, it is hoped, will not be lost. The commander-in-chief
receives the decision of the court with the submission due to the con-
stituted tribunals of a free state. Subordination of the military to the
civil authority is character! stick of the constitution. It is a charac-
teristick that he would be the last to impair. While he will lose no
time in calling upon the wisdom of the legislature to correct the state
of anarchy into which the militia have been thrown by the late decision,
he hastens in the meanwhile to conform to that decision. The general
court martial, of which lieut. col. Youngblood is president, is hereby
dissolved, and the general order of the 4th inst. countermanded.

The general order issued at the request of the citizens of Charleston,
for an extra guard at the magazine, is hereby countermanded.

The general order directing a nightly guard to be furnished by the
alarm corps at the new battery is likewise countermanded.

The general order directing a detachment from the 5th brigade is
countermanded.

Lieutenant Col. Youngblood will forthwith discharge the attach-
ment under his command. The arms, equipments, &c. furnished

354 THEODOSIA

for the particular service in which they have been engaged, to be
deposited in the most contiguous or convenient arsenal. In ordering,
this detachment to be discharged, the commander-in-chief would be
unjust to distinguished merit, if he did not express his obligations to
the zeal, the patriotism, the talents, and truly military spirit of lieut.
col. Youngblood. When it is added that during a service of nearly
three months there has not been occasion for a single court martial,
that not a murmur has been heard, not one instance of misconduct
exhibited, it will readily be perceived how much indeed every officer
and private in the detachment is entitled to the commendation of his
country.

In the approbation bestowed upon the officers designated in the
following extract from the report of lieut. col. Youngblood, the com-
mander-in-chief cordially and with great pleasure unites, "The men
have conducted themselves with subordination; they are ambitious
and patriotick; and at most of the posts, tolerable proficients in mili-
tary discipline. It would be doing an injustice to the officers at Beau-
fort, viz. Capt. Barnwell, Lieut. Lawton, and Ensign Gillison, not to
mention them particularly to your excellency. The discipline of
their company cannot be exceeded by any troops who have been in
service so short a time. Capt. Meggett and Lieuts. Bailey and Patrick
are also excellent officers and entitled to my warmest approbation."

The commander-in-chief avails himself of this opportunity likewise
to tender his thanks to his venerable fellow citizens composing the
alarm corps for their cheerful and soldierlike performance of the duty
assigned them. They have afforded honourable proof — better than
a thousand declamatory professions - - that the spirit which carried
them in triumph through the struggle of 76, still animates them; they
have offered an example to their sons, which ought to have had its
weight.

All officers having command on the seacoast are earnestly required
to be vigilant and alert, and in the event of a landing by the enemy,
to lose no time in conforming to the provisions of the act of '94, in case
of alarm. With the enemy before them, a regard to self preservation
may induce on the part of the militia, that submission to orders and
military discipline wThich? from false notions of liberty, is now refused.

When he recollects the wanton conflagrations, the brutal licentious-
ness, the worse than Indian atrocities, wreaked by the enemy upon
the sister states of Maryland and Virginia, the commander-iu -chief

I HER LAST VOYAGE 35,5

feels too much solicitude for South Carolina, not to deprecate most
fervently the fatal effects which may result from the present derange-
ment, or rather annihilation, of the military system. He deprecates
the pernicious purposes to which the late decision may be perverted by
those opposed, whether from passion or principle, to the war and to
the persons charged with its conduct. He deprecates, above all, the
more ruinous and baneful influence the present state of anarchy is
calculated to produce upon the publick sentiment in a political way.
The want of energy, the imbecility, attributed to republican govern-
ments — their alleged incapacity to sustain the shock of war, or to
support themselves in difficulties — have been the insidious and con-
stant arguments of the enemies of liberty in favour of monarchy. To
these arguments, everything which tends to produce embarrassment
and confusion, everything which contributes to defeat and failure in
the present contest, must give new and increased weight. But the
Commander-in-chief relies not only upon the spirit but upon the good
sense of his countrymen. The present prospect is gloomy. But he
trusts the events will furnish neither argument nor example to any
future innovator upon the happy and republican constitution of South
Carolina.

BY ORDER OF THE COMMANDER-IX-CHIEF.

The bodies of Governor Alston and his son repose
in the family burying-ground at the "Oaks' on
Waccamaw, All Saints Parish, Georgetown County,
South Carolina. The tombstone bears the following
inscription :

356 THEODOSIA

Sacred to the memory

of
JOSEPH and THEODOSIA BURR ALSTON

and of their son

AARON BURR ALSTON.

This last died June, 1812, at the age

of ten years

And his remains are interred here.
The disconsolate mother perished

A few months after at sea
And on the 10th of September, 1816, died the father,

When little over 37 years of age.

Whose remains rest here with the son's.

The loss of this citizen was no common one

to the State.
To its service he devoted himself from

his early years.

On the floors of its Legislature he was
Distinguished for his extensive information

and his transcendent eloquence.

In the chair of the House of Representatives

For his important and correct decisions.

And everywhere he was distinguished

for his zealous attachment to his

Republican principles.

In the capacity of Chief Magistrate

When both the honours and the responsibility

of the trust were heightened by the difficulties

and the war of 1812
He, by his indomitable activity and his

Salutary measures, earned new titles
to the respect and the gratitude of his fellow citizens.

This great man was also a good one.

He met his death with the same fortitude

As his Ancestor, from whom he derived

His name and this estate,

And which is to be found only in the good,

Hoping to regain those whose

Loss had left in his heart an

Aching void that nothing

on earth could fill.

CHAPTER XV

HER SUPPOSED FATE

THE domain of conjecture is very wide, and its
limits have surely been reached since the dis-
appearance of the Patriot, her passengers and crew.
It is our present purpose to take up these conjec-
tures, or theories, or alleged facts (the latter proven
to those who present them) in chronological order,
and thus show the crystallizing of public opinion
as regards the supposed fate of Theodosia.

The first life of Colonel Burr was written by Samuel
L. Knapp. At the time of its publication the sub-
ject of the volume was still living, but he died in the
following year. Referring to Theodosia's death,
Knapp says (85) :

" On his return to this country, after having been
more than five (only four) years in Europe, his
daughter embarked from Charleston (Georgetown) to
make him a visit in New York. She sailed in a
privateer-built vessel, and which was never after-
ward heard of. For a long time the most agonizing
fears were entertained that the vessel had been taken
by pirates. They swarmed at that time upon the
Southern coast of our country, and all about the
West Indies; but after months of awiul suspense, he
had, heaven forgive the expression, the happiness to
think she had been buried in the 'fathomless abyss.'

357

358 THEODOSIA

On going to Europe in 1807 (1808) Colonel Burr had
left his most valuable papers with his daughter, but
these were lost with her. This was truly a loss to
the historian, as he (Burr) had been careful in filing
documents that contained the facts connected with
every event of his life.'

Mr. Knapp does not mention the source of the
"pirate story." It first appeared in print, probably,
in an Alabama paper (86). This article was
brought to the attention of the public in a communi-
tion from William L. Stone, of Mount Vernon, New
York, to the New York Sun of August 27, 1904.

In to-day's Sun, under "Questions and Answers," in reply to a
correspondent asking "What was the true story of the disappearance
of Theodosia, daughter of Aaron Burr, having been captured by
pirates," the editor, usually correct, states that there was "no founda-
tion" for the pirate story. Allow me, however, to say that, on the
contrary, there is considerable foundation for it, and if you will permit
me, I will state my reasons for the above opinion. The Mobile Regis-
ter, of May 23, 1833, said:

The fate of Mrs. Alston, the accomplished lady of Governor Alston
of South Carolina, and daughter of Aaron Burr, has been shrouded
in mystery for more than twenty years. Occasionally, indeed, some
gleam of light has been thrown around her melancholy end, and the
belief is that she fell a victim to piratical atrocity. Some three years
ago it was currently reported that a man residing in one of the interior
counties of this State made some disclosures on his deathbed which
went to confirm the confession previously made by a culprit on the
gallows, that the vessel in which Mrs. Alston sailed was scuttled for
the sake of her plate and effects. The following article, which we
copy from the Alabama Journal, goes to throw some additional light
on the subject. The facts mentioned in it are new to us, and will be
to most of our readers.

CONFESSION OF A PIRATE

The public no doubt remembers the story of the daughter of Aaron
Burr, who was the wife of Governor Alston of South Carolina. On

HER SUPPOSED FATE 359

the return of her father from Europe, about the year 1812, she em-
barked from Charleston, on a visit to him at New York, on board a
privateer-built vessel, and was never heard of afterward. It seems
that her friends at first thought the vessel had fallen into the hands
of pirates, and afterwards concluded that it was wrecked and lost.
It appears from the statement of a respectable merchant of Mobile
that a man died in that city recently, who confessed on his dying bed
that he had been a pirate and helped to destroy the vessel, and all the
crew and passengers, on which Mrs. Alston had embarked for New
York. He declared, says this gentleman (who is well known to us)
that after the men were all killed there was an unwillingness on the
part of every pirate to take the life of Mrs. Alston, who had not re-
sisted them or fought them, and therefore they drew lots who should
perform the deed, as it had to be done.

The lot fell on this pirate who declares that he effected his object
by laying a plank along the edge of the ship and made Mrs. Alston
walk on the plank till it tilted over with her. The dying pirate (says
our informant) requested his physician to make this story public;
but his surviving family will not permit that the name of the deceased
should be known.

The above tale was repeated over and over by the merchant before
mentioned in the presence of a number of gentlemen whose names we
are prepared to give. On being asked if the physician was a man of
veracity, he replied that there was no man more so in Mobile. The
merchant was warned that his story would get into the newspapers,
to which he made no objection.

My father, the late Col. William L. Stone, visited in the Tombs a
pirate known as "Babe," and endeavored to procure from him a
statement that he was the one who captured the schooner in which
Mrs. Alston had taken passage. While the pirate refused to make
any statement to my father either pro or con regarding it, the very
fact that my father endeavored to get from him a confession showed
(very strongly) what the general opinion was at that time. My father
was a very intimate friend of Aaron Burr - - hence his efforts to ascer-
tain the truth. Theodosia was, indeed, a most lovely and cultivated
woman, as three or four autograph letters from her to her father (in
my possession) show. These letters were given to my father by Burr.

WILLIAM L. STONE.

360 THEODOSIA

Parton declares Colonel Burr's opinion was that
the vessel was lost at sea (87). Tor months the
agonized father could not go upon the Battery, then
the chief promenade of the City of New York, with-
out looking wistfully down toward the Narrows, with
a secret, pining hope that even yet the missing vessel
might appear. It was long before he could relin-
quish the idea that some outward bound ship might
have rescued the passengers, and carried them away
to a distant port, whence soon the noble Heart would
return to bless her father's life. By-the-by, some
idle tales were started in the newspapers that the
Patriot had been captured by pirates, and all on
board murdered except Theodosia, who was carried
on shore a captive. 'No, no,' said Burr to a friend
who mentioned the groundless rumor, 'she is indeed
dead. She perished in the miserable little pilot-boat
in which she left Charleston (Georgetown). Were
she alive, all the prisons in the world could not keep
her from her father. When I realized the truth of
her death, the world became a blank to me, and life
had then lost all its value.'

In 1872 a novel was published entitled "Fernando
de Lemos," both 'truth and fiction," written by
Charles Gayarre, the author of " The History of
Louisiana' and other well-known works. Chapter
XXVIII is headed "Dominique You, the Pirate";
Chapter XXIX, "The Fate of the Daughter of
Aaron Burr Revealed." This, so far as careful
research shows, is the first appearance of Theodosia
in fiction (88).

The work is out of print and difficult to obtain.
A search for several years failed to find a copy, until

HER SUPPOSED FATE 361

Colonel Armand Hawkins, of New Orleans, the
owner of one, kindly consented to spare it from his
private library, and thus enabled the presentation of
the quotations which follow.

A Dr. Rhineberg was called to attend the pirate,
who was sick, in fact in a dying condition. A few
brief selections are made from the Doctor's story, in
order to bring the pirate's character forcibly before
the reader.

4 'Dominique You was his name. Wrapped up in
a morning gown, he was reclining in a large arm-
chair with his slippered feet resting on a stool covered
with a tiger's skin. . . . My new patient had been
originally a man of powerful make, but he was now
attenuated and feeble. . . . His physiognomy was
remarkable and not easily to be forgotten. It was
massive and of the leonine style. It looked as if
the monarch of the forest had assumed the human
form, but still retained something of his primitive
type. A thick, bushy hair, falling like a shaggy
mane over his shoulders, added to the effect. His
voice was deep-toned and sounded like a subdued
roar, as it came out of the large cavities of his broad
chest."

The pirate asked the Doctor to diagnose his case,
which was done. The verdict was : ' ; You are suffer-
ing from an ossification of one of the valves of the
heart. There remains nothing to do but to try to
alleviate your sufferings." The pirate asked: "How
many days have I to live?' The Doctor replied:
"Very few."

The pirate from day to day told the story of his
life to the Doctor. "What is a crime?' he asked.

362 THEODOSIA

The Doctor answered: 'Any wicked or atrocious
act, I suppose, which is a grave violation of a human
or a divine law." "Setting aside divine law," said
the pirate, "for I always give a wide birth to reli-
gious discussions, I am, then, a criminal, according
to your definition, for I certainly have violated
human laws even to the shedding of blood, and yet,
although I believe in God and in the immortality of
the soul, I have no remorse. I assure you I am as
calm and easy as if I did not stand guilty in the sight
of man."

At the close of the story of his life, You said: "On
the 3d of January, 1813, there occurred an event
which, some years afterward, had consequences
which I have ever since bitterly regretted, although
I have become nothing but a solid mass of stone, or
bone; and this ossification of the heart, Doctor, of
which I die, is nothing, perhaps, but the ultimate
result of the gradual transformation I have under-
gone."

"We were," continued You, 'in the latitude of
Cape Hatteras on the coast of North Carolina, when
we met a small schooner named the Patriot, which
had been dismantled by a late storm, and which was
bound from Charleston, South Carolina, to New
York. She was a vessel famous for her sailing
qualities. After many successful privateering cruises
against the English, she was going home loaded with
rich spoils, and with her guns stowed below — which
circumstance made her incapable of defence. We
boarded her. She was commanded by an experi-
enced captain, and had for sailing master an old New
York pilot noted for his skill and courage.

HER SUPPOSED FATE 363

"Such men could not be allowed to live to tell
tales, and perhaps avenge their mishap at our hands,
even if sparing them had not been contrary to the
regulations of our association. They were slaugh-
tered and thrown overboard with the rest of the
crew. After this execution my men rushed down
below and brought up to the deck a woman of sur-
passing beauty, deadly pale, but showing no other
signs of terror. She looked at us with a sort of
serene haughtiness, which was truly wonderful.
She made such an impression on me, that I can
almost fancy her now standing in this chamber pre-
cisely as she stood on that deck.

"'Who are you?' I said to her.

Theodosia Burr, the daughter of Aaron Burr,
ex- vice-president of the United States, and wife of
Joseph Alston, governor of South Carolina.'

'A grand conquest,' exclaimed one of my men,
'and we shall have a jolly time with her.' And he
advanced toward her, followed by the rest of the
crew. She stepped back writh an offended look of
queenly dignity. I planted myself in front of her.

"'Back, my men' I shouted, 'back at the peril of
your lives. Don't you know better? Don't you
know that I sanction death, but no outrages of the
kind you contemplate. Death to prisoners is a
necessity of the war we wage. Every vessel we take
is to be scuttled, and every soul on board must perish.
This is our covenant. In that we are justified on
the principle of self-defence. But what you intend
doing would be, not only a mean and cowardly act,
but also an atrocious crime, because useless for our
protection and not an indispensable sacrifice which

364 THEODOSIA

we must make to it. Death is in the bond which I
signed, but not rape. Back, then, back!'

"They murmured and seemed to hesitate. I put
my hand on one of the pistols which I had in my
belt, and they slowly and sullenly retired to their
quarters, leaving me alone with the lady.

"'Sir,' she said, 'I thank you; you have more than
saved my life.'

"'I regret, madam, that I cannot do more; that
life is forfeited.'

" ' It is well. When must it be ? '

"'Now/

"'I am ready; the sooner done the better for me
and for yourself, for I am in your way, and a source
of peril to you.'

"I had the plank laid out. She stepped on it and
descended into the sea with graceful composure, as
if she had been alighting from a carriage. She sank,
and rising again, she, with an indescribable smile of
angelic sweetness, waved her hand to me as if she
meant to say: Farewell, and thanks again; and then
sank forever. By the living God! She must have
been a splendid creature."

'Wretch!' the Doctor exclaimed in a burst of
indignation. 'How dare your lips thus profane the
name of God ! And how dare you confess to me such
horrors! Were you not dying, I would have you
arrested and hung!'

'Precisely, Doctor, precisely; but I am dying.
Pray, sit down; I am safe from human justice; and,
as to your making a scene here under present cir-
cumstances, it would be decidedly vulgar and in
bad taste. If you cannot hang me, listen at least.

HER SUPPOSED FATE 365

You may, when I am dead, repeat the story for the
information of whom it may concern."

There is no evidence to show that the incorpora-
tion of this incident in the story had much effect on
the public mind, or led its readers to think that the
confession of Dominique You was "truth' as dis-
tinct from the acknowledged * fiction' of part of
the book.

In 1879 Mrs. Stella Edwards Pierpont Drake
addressed the following communication to the editor
of the Washington Post, which bore for headlines:
The Fate of Theodosia Burr. Another Addition
to the Reports Concerning it. Remorseful Pirate
Sailor's Alleged Story."

I see by the Chicago Inter-Ocean of June 28, and the Chicago
Tunes of July 7. that the mystery connected with the death of Theo-
dosia Burr Alston had been again brought to public notice. As the
articles from these papers were taken from the Post, I write to you
because my story corroborates it.

In 1850, an old man, who, years before, had been a sailor, an
occupant of the Cass County Poorhouse, Cassopolis, Michigan, in
conversing with a lady, the wife of a Methodist minister, about his
past life, filled with wrong-doing and crime, said that the act which
caused him the most remorse was the tipping of the plank on which
Mrs. Alston, the daughter of Aaron Burr, walked into the ocean.

Said he: "I was a sailor on a pirate vessel. We captured the vessel
in which the lady was. When told she must walk the plank into the
ocean, she asked for a few moments alone, which was granted. She
came forward when told her time had expired, dressed beautifully
in white, the loveliest woman I had ever seen. Calmly she stepped
upon the plank. With eyes raised to the heavens and hands crossed
reverently upon her bosom, she walked slowly and firmly into the
ocean, without an apparent tremor. Had I refused to perform my
work, as I wish with all my heart I had, my death would have been
sure and certain."

This is the testimony of an almost dying man, the confession of

366 THEODOSIA

the most terrible act of his life. It seems to me, when an old man,
bemoaning his life, filled with sin, makes such a confession, without
any provocation whatever than the unburdening of his soul during
his preparation for another life — for death came soon after — that
there must be truth in his statement.

The lady to whom the confession was made repeated to my grand-
mother, whose maiden name was Mary Edwards, and who was a
cousin of Aaron Burr, the story as I have told it, as she had frequently
heard her speak of the mystery concerning the death of Mrs. Alston.

STELLA E. P. DRAKE.
STURGIS, ST. Jo. COUNTY, MICH., July 27, 1879.

The preceding appeared later in 'The Tuttle
Family' (89) with the heading: "Theodosia Burr's
Fate. The Alleged Confession of a Penitent old
Pirate."

The poem which follows was written about 1882
by Mrs. A. E. W. Wadsworth, of Cambridge, Mass.
She read the pirate's confession, if she remembers
correctly, in the Providence, R. I., Evening Bulletin.
It was probably copied from either the Chicago Inter-
Ocean, Chicago Times, or the Washington Post.

FATE OF THEODOSIA, DAUGHTER OF AARON BURR

In vain she pleaded for her life,
And for the noble few
Who heard the pirate chief their doom
Shout to his blood-stained crew.

A black, ill-omened banner waved
Above them where they stood,
Each waiting for the fearful leap
Into the deep dark flood.

In calm despair she crossed the deck,
And fainter grew her breath,
Until upon the fatal plank
She faced the terror death.

HER SUPPOSED FATE 367

One thought of earth and all held dear,
A prayer, one moment more,
A plunge, a cry, a gasping shriek!
Oh, God! and all was o'er.

We ask why one Omnipotent
Could not those brave hearts save,
And wonder why the fates decreed
For them a sea-girt grave.

But we cannot the mystery solve,
God's secrets are untold,
Till in his grand immortal realm
He will life's page unfold.

When conjecture, or imagination, is given full
rein, without the restraining influence of knowledge
of accepted facts, it often becomes absurd. This is
forcibly shown by an article from a special corre-
spondent, published in a New York paper (90).

ALEXANDRIA, VA., Dec. 23. — There are a number of graveyards
clustered together in this quaint old town, and the visitors to each
denominational bury ing-ground are many, especially on Sundays.
In the plot over which St. Paul's Episcopal Church has control,
there is one grave, over which there is a flat stone, and on the latter
is the following inscription:

"To the memory of a female stranger whose mortal sufferings
terminated on the 14th day of October, 1816, aged 23 years and 8
months.

This stone is placed here by her disconsolate husband, in whose
arms she sighed her latest breath and who under God did his utmost
to soothe the cold, dread ear of death.

How loved, how valued once avails thee not,
To whom related, or by whom begot;
A heap of dust alone remains of thee,
'Tis all thou art, and all the proud shall be.

To him gave all the prophets witness, that through his name who-

368 THEODOSIA

soever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. Acts, 10th
chapter, 43d verse."

There is a willow tree standing at the head of the grave, and the
cemetery is the favorite promenade of the citizens of Alexandria on a
Sunday afternoon, many of whom linger around the grave of the
female stranger.

Visiting the cluster of cemeteries on a week day, and gazing in-
tently on the last resting place of the strange female, an old gentle-
man named Monroe walked up and said:

"You seem to be interested in the slab before you."

I stated that I was.

"Do you know who is buried there ?"

I answered that I did not, and he said: "That is supposed to be
the grave of Theodosia Burr, the only daughter of Aaron Burr, Vice-
president of the United States, under President Thomas Jefferson.
In the olden days when Alexandria was a thriving commercial city
and its port was celebrated for its shipping and the number of fish
that were landed there from the Chesapeake Bay, a gentleman and
lady - - both strangers - - arrived in this city and stopped at the City
Hotel. The man was English to all appearances and the lady evi-
dently an American. She was of very dark complexion. Her face
was of oval shape and she was noted for her beauty, but in a few days
after their arrival the lady took sick. A doctor was sent for, and as
soon as he arrived, the supposed husband of the lady placed a brace
of pistols on a table and said to the doctor: 'Do not be too inquisitive;
ask her no questions about her family or connections; treat her for
her disease, whatever it is, and cure her if you can. But if you ask any
questions not relating to her bodily trouble, I shall blow your head off.'

"Whether this threat had anything to do with the lady's sudden
taking off or not, I am at a loss to say," said the strange old gentleman,
and continuing stated that it was sufficient to know that the lady died
and was buried beneath that stone.

'The man has been here several times since, but whether he was
the lady's husband or not, it is hard for me to say, as he was a man
of few words and when on his visits rarely spoke to anybody or mingled
in society. The husband of Theodosia Burr was Governor Alston
of South Carolina, but if it was he who used to visit the grave of the
female stranger, he did not make himself known, and, taken alto-
gether, it is a mysterious case," said my informant in conclusion.

HER SUPPOSED FATE , 369

A little calm reflection will show the historical im-
possibility of this article containing even the sem-
blance of truth. The 'female stranger' is said to
have died on the 14th day of October, 1816, aged 23
years and 8 months. As Theodosia was born in
June, 1783, she was in her 30th year when the Patriot
sailed from Georgetown. As Governor Alston died
on September 10, 1816, he could not possibly have
been present at the deathbed of the "female stranger'
on October 16 of the same year. The article is given
simply as an illustration of a correspondent's vagary,
founded wholly upon imagination, or, as is commonly
said, "a yarn made out of whole cloth. ':

In 1894 a new version of the "pirate's story'
appeared. The New York Mail and Express, on
February 24, printed an article entitled "Aaron
Burr's Daughter." It was not prepared for the
paper in question, being copied from a contemporary
magazine (91).

When Burr was tried in Richmond for treason, the peerless Theo-
dosia accompanied him, bravely and proudly sharing his imprison-
ment, encouraging and supporting him in his darkest hours, and
believing implicitly in his innocence to the last. She was equally
devoted to her husband and to her only son, young Aaron Burr Alston,
who died in his eleventh year, just before his grandfather's return to
New York from his long exile. Aaron Burr pined for his daughter's
companionship; she was almost crushed by the death of her darling
son; so it was arranged that she should visit her father in New York.
She accordingly set sail from Georgetown, S. C., in the Patriot, a small
pilot boat, on December 30, 1812.

It was generally supposed that the Patriot was wrecked off Cape
Hatteras during a storm which occurred soon after it set sail; subse-
quent events, however, have thrown new light on the catastrophe,
and the fate of Theodosia Burr seems at last emerging from the clouds
which have so long wrapt it in obscurity. A picture has been found

370 THEODOSIA

on the North Carolina coast, which there is strong reason to suppose
is a portrait of this unfortunate woman; and the story connected with
it is romantic and intensely interesting.

The late Dr. W. C. Pool found what is supposed to be a portrait
of Mrs. Alston at Nag's Head, N. C., in 1869. The woman who
owned it told the following story regarding it:

Shortly after her marriage to her first husband, Mr. Tillett, one
winter morning, "when we were fighting the English," a pilot boat
was discovered near Kitty Hawk, two miles below Nag's Head. The
boat, which had all sails set and the rudder lashed, seemed to be
turned adrift. Upon boarding the vessel, the wreckers found it to
be in good condition, but entirely deserted. There was no sign of
blood or violence of any kind and a table was set for some meal. The
supposition of the wreckers was that the boat had been boarded
by pirates, and all the passengers and crew made to "walk the plank."
In the cabin, among other things not of great value, were several
handsome silk dresses, a vase of beautiful wax flowers, with a glass
covering and a shell resembling the nautilus, exquisitely carved.
Hanging on the wall of the cabin was this portrait of a beautifull
woman, which, with other things mentioned, Mr. Tillett received
as his share of the spoils, presenting them all to his future wife, after-
wards Mrs. Mann.

The pilot boat to which Mrs. Mann referred came ashore two
miles below Nag's Head, "one winter morning when we were fighting
the English." This must have been during the war of 1812, since
Mrs. Mann's age would preclude her remembrance of any other
war of the United States and Great Britain. The Patriot, a small
pilot boat, which was to convey Mrs. Alston to her father in New
York, set sail from Georgetown, S. C., December 30, 1812, and was
never afterwards heard of. In making the voyage, the Patriot must
necessarily have passed the North Carolina coast. The sea at this
time was infested with pirates. It is not improbable that a band of
these bold buccaneers boarded the little vessel in the hope of securing
valuable booty, and after compelling everyone on board to "walk
the plank," were alarmed by the sudden appearance of some United
States cruiser and from motives of prudence abandoned their prize.

Some years ago two criminals, executed in Norfolk, Va., confessed
having participated in the murder of Theodosia Burr. They pro-
fessed to have belonged to a piratical crew who boarded the Patriot

HER SUPPOSED FATE 371

and compelled every soul on board to "walk the plank." Two sailors,
one dying in Texas, and the other in a Michigan poorhouse, made
deathbed confessions to the same effect. Both professed to remem-
ber Theodosia well, and the mendicant said he could never forget
her face as she begged for her life; that it had haunted him ever since
and given him no rest. She told the pirates that she was the daughter
of Aaron Burr and wife of Governor Alston, of South Carolina, and
would promise them pardon and a liberal reward if they would spare
her life. But they were relentless, and the waters hid her beautiful
face forever. She was the last to step over the ship's side, refused to
be blindfolded, and met her fate with a calm and fearless demeanor.
It is impossible to vouch for the truth of these confessions, which have
appeared from time to time in print; I only introduce them as col-
lateral evidence in support of Mrs. Mann's assertions. In order to
prove more fully that the picture in his possession was a likeness of
Aaron Burr's daughter, Dr. Pool opened a correspondence with several
members of the Burr and Edwards families, and sent them photo-
graphs of the portrait. Almost without exception they have pro-
nounced it a likeness of this unfortunate lady.

In the following year the story took an approved
poetic form, appearing in a New York magazine (92) .

; THE WRECKER'S STORY1

On December 30, 1812, Theodosia, the beautiful, accomplished,
and devoted daughter of Aaron Burr, and wife of Governor Alston
of South Carolina, stunned by the ruin of her father and the death
of her boy, took passage on the Patriot, a pilot boat, to join her father
in New York. The vessel never came to port. It is known that a
storm raged on the Carolina coast on New Year's day, 1813, and the
circumstantial evidence seems conclusive that the Patriot fell into the
hands of "bankers." These were wreckers and pirates who infested
the long sand-bars that fence the coast outside of Currituck, Albemarle,
and Pamlico sounds, and reach as far south as Cape Lookout. It was
their practice, on stormy nights, to decoy passing craft by means of a
lantern swinging from the neck of an old nag, which they led up and
down the beach. Thus vessels were stranded on the banks off Kitty

1 Copyright, 1895, by the Century Co. From The Century Magazine, by
permission.

372 THEODOSIA I

Hawk and Nag's Head, and plundered, after the crews and passengers
had been slain with hangers or compelled to "walk the plank." Long
after the disappearance of the Patriot, two criminals executed at Nor-
folk, Virginia, confessed to having had a hand in the death of Theo-
dosia Burr. They were, they said, members of a gang of "bankers"
who wrecked and pillaged the Patriot, forcing her people to walk the
plank.

In revel and carousing
We gave the New Year housing,
With wreckage for our firing,
And rum to heart's desiring,
Antigua and Jamaica,
Flagon and stoup and beaker.
Full cans and a ranting chorus;
Hard hearts for the bout before us:
To brave grim death's grimaces
On dazed and staring faces,
With dirks and hangers bristling,
We for a gale went whistling.

Accompanying this stanza is a picture of a rudely built room with
a fire blazing in the open fireplace. Gathered about it on one
side are a group of men, drinking and carousing. At the other side
is one woman who seems to be peering into the fire.

Inlet and sound confounding,
Hatteras roared and rumbled,
Currituck heaved and tumbled;
And the sea-gulls screamed like witches,
And sprawled in the briny ditches.
Shelter and rest we flouted,
Jorum and pipe we scouted,
Fiddler and wench we routed.
''Fetch out the nag!" we shouted;
For a craft in the offing struggled.
"Now for a skipper juggled;
Now for a coaster stranded,
And loot in the lockers landed!"
With lantern cheerily rocking.

HER SUPPOSED FATE 373

Beside these lines is a picture of a portion of beach, with the
breakers dashing high on the shore. Overhead the clouds are black
as ink and birds are flying towards the shore.

Tornado or pampero,
To swamp the host of Pharaoh;
To goad the mad Atlantic,
And drive the skippers frantic;
To jar the deep with thunder,
And make the waste a wonder,
And plunge the coasters under,
And pile the banks with plunder.
Then the wild rack came skirling,
Ragged and crazed, and whirling
Sea-stuff and sand in breakers,
Frothing the shelvy acres,
Over the banks high bounding.

With these lines is a picture of the old nag with a lantern tied
around her neck. Just a glimpse of the water can be seen, and in
the shadow is a group of men, evidently the wreckers.

On the nag's head, we went mocking,

Lilting of tipsy blisses,

And Bonnibel's squandered kisses.

Straight for that hell-spark steering,

Drove the doomed craft careering;

Men on her fore-deck huddled,

Sea in her wake all cruddled,

Kitty Hawk sheer before her,

And the breakers booming o'er her,

Till the rocks in their lurking stove her,

And her riven spars went over,

And she lay on her side and shivered,

And groaned to be delivered.

With these lines is a picture of the vessel as she is being dashed
on the shore. The waves are breaking over the bow. The name
"Patriot" is on the stern. In the distance can be seen a light.

Gruesome in death's grimaces;
And God's wrath overpast us,

374 THEODOSIA

With never a bolt to blast us!

By the brunt of our doings daunted,

We crouched where the fore-deck slanted,

Scanning each other's faces,

Graved with that horror's traces.

One, peering aft, wild-staring,

Points through the torches flaring:

" Spook of the storm, or human ?

Angel, or wraith, or woman ? "

Havoc and wreck surveying,

Imploring not, not praying,

Nor death nor life refusing;

Stony and still — accusing!

Boats through the black rift storming,

Foes on her quarter swarming,

Dirks in the torchlight flashing,

And the wicked hangers slashing;

Lips that were praying mangled;

Throats that were screaming, strangled;

Souls in the surges tumbling.

Vainly for foothold fumbling;

Horror of staring faces.

With these last lines is a picture of the Patriot as she lies tossing
to and fro among the rocks. A small boat filled with men is approach-
ing her.

Black as our hearts the creature's

Vesture; her matchless features

White as the dead. Oh! wonder

Of woman high heaven under!

So she moved down upon us

(Though Death and the Fiend might shun us)

And we made passage cowering.

Accompanying these lines is a picture of a portion of the deck
of the Patriot. A light is hanging in the rigging. Its rays fall directly
upon the face of Theodosia, as she confronts the wreckers, who stand
aside making a passage for her. The faces of the wreckers betray
awe, and one of them has his hand raised, as though to prevent her
nearer approach.

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HER SUPPOSED FATE 375

Rigid and mute and towering,
Never a frown she deigned us,
Never with curse arraigned us.
One, trembling, dropped his hanger,
And swooned at the awful clangor;
But she passed on, unharking,
Her steps our doom-strokes marking,
Straight to the plank, and mounted.
"One, two, three, four!" we counted;
Till she paused, o'er the flood suspended,
Poised, her lithe arms extended —
And the storm stood still, and waited
For the stroke of the Lord belated.

JOHN WILLIAMSON PALMER.

Accompanying the last lines is a picture of Theodosia walking
the plank. She stands near the end of the plank, in a black ( ?) dress,
with arms and eyes raised to Heaven. The wreckers are gathered
about the plank on the deck and are watching her with expressions
of fear or wonder in their eyes.

While engaged upon his romance "Blennerhas-
sett; or, The Decrees of Fate," the writer, in search
of information, corresponded with many persons.
The following is taken from a private letter from Mr.
William L. Stone, of Mount Vernon, New York:

In 1857, on one of my trips to Europe, I had as a fellow passenger,
a doctor, who was apparently well posted. He told me then that it
was thought that Babe, the pirate, had captured the vessel in which
Theodosia came from South Carolina to see her father, and which
you remember was never heard of afterwards. I saw "Babe" in the
Tombs in New York, when I was about two years old. Anyway, I
give this to you so you may have all the facts and rumors at your
command.

In order to show the growth of the "pirate story,"
it is necessary to indulge in some virtual repetitions;
in fact, the story has had as many literary colors as

376 THEODOSIA

Jacob's coat had visible ones. The magnetic needle
always points to the, so far, unreachable North Pole,
and these stories, although varying in phraseology,
have but one logical conclusion to be drawn from
them - the tragic death of Theodosia at the hands
of pirates.

On June 4, 1895, the following appeared in the
New York World and the Philadelphia Record:

ELKTON, MD., June 4. — The story of how Aaron Burr's only
child, beautiful, young Theodosia, met her death at the hands of
ocean pirates years ago, and how that fact was only recently estab-
lished by the discovery of a portrait of her, rescued from the schooner
from whence she was thrown into the sea, is told in print herewith
for the first time. Involving, as it does, the deathbed confession of
one of the pirates who drowned the young woman, the tale seems
more like fiction than verified history, but there are persons living
hereabouts who have verified it in detail, and who will vouch for its
accuracy.

Theodosia Burr, a young woman of unusual mental attainments,
was married to the son of Judge Alston of South Carolina, a relative
of Washington Allston, the celebrated historical portrait painter.
Mr. and Mrs. Alston resided on their plantation near Charleston.
When Aaron Burr contemplated returning from the extended visit
he had made to Europe after his trial, he wrote Mrs. Alston, to whom
he was devotedly attached, asking her to meet him in New York on
his arrival there. Mr. Alston, engrossed with the business of his
plantation, found it impossible to accompany his wife. There being
no railroads in those days, and Mr. Alston deeming that a summer ( ?)
trip from Charleston to New York by sea would be less irksome to
his wife than a stage journey by land, chartered a coasting schooner.
In this, Mrs. Alston set out. She took with her, as a present to her
father, a beautiful painting of herself. But she never reached New
York, and down to the present day the fate of Aaron Burr's only
child has been a matter of speculation among historians, some con-
tending that the vessel and all on board were lost at sea, others assert-
ing that Mrs. Alston fell into the hands of some of the pirates, who,
in those days, infested the Atlantic coast.

HER SUPPOSED FATE 377

But the mystery has at last been cleared up. Its accuracy is
vouched for by the former rector of Trinity Episcopal Church, Elkton,
a clergyman well known throughout Maryland and the Middle States.

About five years ago this clergyman was visiting in his native State,
North Carolina, and for several days was the guest of the widow of
Dr. William Poole, near Elizabeth City. Above the mantelpiece in
Mrs. Poole 's parlor was an old-fashioned painting, exquisitely exe-
cuted, of a beautiful young woman, dressed in white. It so greatly
interested the clergyman that he asked Mrs. Poole whom it was in-
tended to represent. She then gave the following story of it :

Eight years previously, she said, Dr. Poole had taken his family
to pass the summer at the little coast town of Nag's Head, N. C.,
where the United States man-of-war Huron came to grief.

The place is largely populated by "bankers" -generally a rough
class of men, who mainly earn a livelihood by picking up all species
of flotsam and jetsam along the coast. One of these "bankers,"
however, was a very respectable and very old fellow named Mann.
His wife was suffering from a complication of diseases and Dr. Poole
took great interest in her case. Under his treatment she recovered
and, as a token of gratitude to the Doctor, presented him with the
painting which so greatly interested the clergyman. Mrs. Mann
said that her husband had recovered it from a wreck. When quite
a young man he was walking along the shore one morning. His
attention was then called to a coasting schooner under full sail, bear-
ing swiftly down upon the dangerous bar, which, in later days, occa-
sioned the loss of the Huron. With other "bankers" Mann put out
to her assistance.

They boarded the schooner, but found that the only living thing
aboard was a little black and tan dog. Careful inspection of the
schooner proved nothing as to her antecedents. Even her name was
not ascertainable. But one of the cabins had evidently been very
recently occupied by a woman, and in this cabin was the painting
which Mrs. Mann gave Dr. Poole, and which Mann appropriated as
his share of the salvage. The schooner shortly afterward went to
pieces.

Dr. Poole was an enthusiastic student of national matters. He
felt certain that the picture had a very valuable history and formed
a suspicion that it might have represented the mysteriously lost
daughter of Aaron Burr. He put himself in communication with

378 THEODOSIA

several historical societies on the matter, but his theory found little
weight, in spite of a family likeness being admitted.

As the clergyman upon whose authority this story is given was re-
turning from a recent visit to Mrs. Poole, while driving from that
lady's house to Elizabeth City to take the cars home, he met a young
man whom he knew to be very bashful and much afraid of the gentler
sex, driving a strange woman in a buggy toward Mrs. Poole 's resi-
dence. In a letter written to Mrs. Poole shortly afterward, he good-
naturedly referred to the incident and to the young fellow's evident
embarrassment.

This brought from Mrs. Poole another chapter in the story of the
beautiful picture. The strange woman was a descendant of the
Burr family, who resides in Detroit, Mich. Her name has temporarily
escaped the clergyman's memory. She had been visiting at Virginia
Beach, Va., where she had heard of Mrs. Poole 's mysterious painting
from a North Carolina gentleman. Her visit to Elizabeth City was
solely for the purpose of seeing the painting, and no sooner had she
set eyes on it than she offered Mrs. Poole $300 spot cash for the same,
besides any additional sum she might require. Mrs. Poole refused
to part with the treasure. She told the visitor that there was a strong
family likeness between the latter and the subject of the picture, who-
ever that subject might have been; and further informed her of the
facts, already given here, as to how the painting came into her posses-
sion.

This elicited from the Detroit woman another remarkable reminis-
cence, and one which, taken in connection with the foregoing facts,
proves that the painting is that of Aaron Burr's daughter — the one
destined as a present to her father — and that the unfortunate young
woman was drowned by pirates. This, in substance, is the Detroit
woman's story:

With her mother, in Detroit, formerly resided her mother's aged
aunt, a humane woman who gave up much time to visiting the poor
and sick. One evening, in one of the wards of the Marine Hospital
of that city, was a dying sailor, who seemed terribly startled as the
aunt, in company with others, approached his bedside. He beckoned
her to him, however, and after begging that she alone of the visitors
might hear what he had to say — a request which the others granted
by retiring to the next ward — he stated that when a young man he
had one summer been on a pirate vessel off the North Carolina coast.

HER SUPPOSED FATE 379

He went on to say that he had then helped to overhaul a north-bound
coasting schooner:

On the vessel was a beautiful, young, feminine passenger, dressed
all in white. He had assisted in dragging her from her cabin, in which
was hanging up a painting of herself. While the pirates were engaged
in throwing the crew overboard, he noted that this beautiful young
lady paced the deck, with magnificent courage and dignity, her hands
folded on her breast, her eyes raised to heaven. She made no remon-
strance whatever, and he steadied the plank upon which she walked
to the vessel's side, thence to be plunged headlong into the ocean.
He wanted to take away her picture and her dog - - a little black and
tan fellow — but dreaded to touch either. After the pirates had
plundered the schooner of money and other treasures, they aban-
doned the vessel, having set it under full sail, the dog aboard. The
dying sailor said that the young woman's sweet face had haunted him
throughout life, and his confession was prompted by a striking re-
semblance between her and his elderly listener.

Mrs. Poole's visitor stated that the sailor's story had been for
years a current tradition of the descendants of Burr's family, though
they had hitherto paid very little attention to it. Its extraordinary
corroboration by the accidental meeting of these two women appears
to settle forever the recent mystery as to the death of Mrs. Alston.
The Detroit woman says that the subject of the painting is beyond
doubt Aaron Burr's daughter - - a statement corroborated by other
pictures of that unfortunate woman in her possession, as also by still
others belonging to the Alston family.

The "pirate story' and the 'picture story' hav-
ing become combined, the discussion of the question,
from this time forward, embraced both these elements.

On July 2, 1901, the late Alexander Quarles Holla-
day, LL.D., contributed his version of the matter to
a New York paper (93).

Dr. William Pool, who died a few years ago, a distinguished physi-
cian of Elizabeth City, N. C., was for many years in the habit of spend-
ing some weeks of summer at Nag's Head, a surf-bathing resort on
the narrow strip of sand known as the Peninsula, separating the
great inner sounds of North Carolina from the Atlantic.

380 THEODOSIA

Near this little summer village, thirty years ago, lived in sullen,
suspicious seclusion Mrs. Tillett, the aged widow of Joseph Tillett,
who as far back as 1808 held a sort of eminence among his fellow
wreckers and fishermen, and who died before 1850. It so happened
during one of Dr. Pool's sojourns at Nag's Head that his professional
skill saved the life of the granddaughter of Mrs. Tillett, the only
creature for whom her morose old age seemed to feel strong affection,
and from this time the aged woman exhibited some feeling of gratitude
toward the generous doctor, who with each returning summer re-
newed his acquaintance, often ministering to her wants and infirmities.
At last she told him she would not live to see him return, and that she
wished to give him the only thing she possessed that he might value
as a small acknowledgment of his long-continued kindness to her,
and to his surprise she placed in his hands a well-painted and hand-
some portrait of a high-bred lady, of which in answer to his urgent
inquiry she reluctantly gave this account as coming from her former
husband, Joseph Tillett. He told her that before their marriage (I
think in 1810), ( ?) early one morning, as he and his companions were
launching their fishing boat, they became aware of a schooner at a
considerable distance moving in so peculiar and irregular a manner
that instead of pursuing their ordinary fishing they put out to sea
and easily overhauled the strange vessel. They found her deserted,
floating at random, and upon boarding, appearances indicated that
sudden and unexpected events had very recently occurred. An
elegantly equipped cabin had apparently been hastily rifled and as
hastily abandoned by the plunderers, as upon the floor were found
fine laces and undergarments, and drawers broken open were not en-
tirely emptied. On a locker was a portrait in oil of a beautiful woman.
Everything went to show that the cabin had been the temporary habi-
tation of a lady of refinement and fortune, who was the only passenger
of note on the little vessel. According to the widow's statement,
Tillett told her they knew something tragical had occurred, but agreed
not to talk about what was over and could not be remedied, and pro-
ceeded to divide among themselves what was left on the ill-fated vessel.
As part of his share, Tillett demanded and received the portrait and
some of the laces, all of which he gave to his bride of the next year,
who repeated this ghastly and suggestive story to Dr. Pool near sixty
years later.

Dr. Pool never felt sure he had been told the whole truth, nor even

HER SUPPOSED FATE 381

the exact truth as far as the story went, though he did not suspect,
so far as I ever heard, that Tillett and his companions were the pirates
who first waylaid and then sacked the vessel, causing all on board to
walk the plank, but it seemed at least possible that Tillett knew more
than he chose to tell.

Dr. Pool was well acquainted with the melancholy tradition of
Mrs. Governor Alston's disappearance at this time and in this neigh-
borhood, and took some pains by such inquiry as could be made of
the few still living who remembered her to clear up the mystery and
fix the identity of the portrait. Such evidence as he could still collect
was probably short of absolute demonstration, but it was such as to
make not only Dr. Pool but many others believe the picture to be a
veritable portrait of Theodosia Burr Alston, and the one silent witness
left of that ocean tragedy.

This portrait still hangs on the walls of the old Pool residence,
in Elizabeth City, and is in the possession of gentle people who will
not refuse inspection of it to any serious inquirer.

ALEXANDER Q. HOLLADAY, LL.D.

NEW YORK, July 2, 1901.

In a private letter, of date October 5, 1901, a
member of the Edwards family wrote to the author
of " Blennerhassett " : 'I read your 'Blennerhassett'
with absorbing interest, but frankly will say that
friend Parton should have been given credit some-
where for his (to me) splendid vindication of Burr.
Tell me for true if your account of the capture and
death of Theodosia is a fact, or only a part of the
romance? Pardon the doubt, but the family tradi-
tion is that she was lost in a storm. There is still
living in Binghamton, New York, a granddaughter
of Jonathan Edwards, consequently a cousin of Burr.
She remembers him well and has talked to me about
him. He (Burr) did not believe the pirate story. ':

"Blennerhassett' was published in September,
1901. It was widely reviewed, and the considera-

382 THEODOSIA

tion given in the newspaper articles to Colonel Burr
and his daughter brought the question of her fate
prominently before the public.

On November 25, 1901, the Springfield (Mass.)
Republican copied an article from a New York
paper entitled "The Fate of Theodosia Alston" (94).

The talk of an Aaron Burr revival again arouses interest in the mys-
terious fate of Theodosia, Burr's fair and brilliant daughter. The
uncertainty about her death forms one of those curious lapses of his-
tory which are rich in rumor, but seemingly lacking in authenticated
fact.

It is noticeable that the author of the recent novel, "Blennerhassett,"
in dealing with the fate of Theodosia, drifts with the current of popular
belief, which for many years has set strongly towards the theory that
the tragedy which plays so conspicuous a part in the romance of
American History was the work of wreckers- "pirates," he calls
them; "bankers," as the Carolina folks knew them. It is to be noted
that "the foundering of the Patriot in a storm off Cape Hatteras" was
but the convenient conclusion of that time in the absence of all other
evidence. That consummation was simply "taken for granted'1
and passed current for nearly half a century, unchallenged on the one
hand and unsupported on the other; there was never a glimmer of
proof behind it. The occasional sparks of actual disclosure (from
Burr's despair to this romance of "Blennerhassett") have shown
the way to a different conclusion.

We know that Burr was warned by many good people of the Caro-
lina coast, denizens of the country near the "banks," that the Patriot
had fallen a prey to wreckers, the amphibious pirates of those waters.
We know that Burr, with characteristic fatalism, refused to consider
the omen, and that even Parton, in the absence of that knowledge
which has since taken form and voice in a succession of recorded
facts, repudiated the insistent story of certain newspapers in Burr's
time as "groundless and fanciful."

When Dr. Palmer's striking poem of "Theodosia Burr," as we find
it in the little volume of ballads and lyrics entitled "For Charlie's
Sake," first appeared in the Century Magazine, in 1895, it was pre-
ceded by an explanatory note which constituted its "argument."

HER SUPPOSED FATE 383

According to Dr. Palmer's contention, "the circumstantial evidence
seems conclusive that the Patriot fell into the hands of "bankers."
These were wreckers and pirates who infested the long sandy bars
that fence the coast outside of Currituck, Albemarle, and Pamlico
sounds and stretch as far south as Cape Lookout. It was their prac-
tice, on stormy nights, to decoy passing craft by means of a lantern
swinging from the neck of an old nag, which they led up and down
the beach. Thus vessels were stranded off Kitty Hawk and Nag's
Head, and plundered, after the crews and passengers had been slain
with hangers or compelled to walk the plank."

I have learned from Dr. Palmer that the banding and the treacher-
ous and murderous practice of these "bankers" were well known
along the coast from the Chesapeake capes to Hatteras, in the first
quarter of the century, and that as late as 1847 in Accomac and North-
ampton counties, on the eastern shore of Virginia, two old men, re-
tired mariners, were pointed out to him as former "bankers" and
wreckers (1812-14); they were regarded askance and with a certain
unneighborly mystery.

A well-known and highly respected physician of North Carolina,
Dr. Poole, whose narrative was published, found in a cabin near the
coast a woman, old, ignorant, and superstitious, whom he attended in
a protracted illness. She was the widow first of one and then of an-
other "banker." On the wall of her cabin hung an oil painting,
unframed, the well-executed portrait of a lady whose resemblance to
an authentic portrait of Theodosia Burr impressed Dr. Poole and
brought him again and again to curious study of it. To his question
"How did she come by it?" the woman explained that when she was
yet but a slip of a girl and was sweethearting with a young "banker,"
he brought her that picture, a lady's silk dress, and an ornament of
wax flowers, such as at that time were found in many homes of "the
quality" as a decoration for the mantelpiece. Her lover explained
(and she believed his story) that he had found them on a pilot boat,
"abandoned and drifting, not a soul on board, and everything remain-
ing as the people had left it." His mates stripped the vessel, and he
had chosen these things as his share to give to her. "It was the time
of the war with the English," she said. The picture passed into the
possession of Dr. Poole. Photographs of it were submitted to the
scrutiny of surviving members of the Burr and Edwards families, by
several of whom it was identified as a portrait of Theodosia. The

384 THEODOSIA

story, as related by Dr. Poole, who by all who knew him would be
accepted as a judicious and trustworthy chronicler, seems to be a
striking reflection of the picture presented in the poem.

Many years after the publication of "Blennerhas-
sett," an article was published in the Elizabeth City
(North Carolina) Economist of July 31, 1888, and
came into the possession of the author. It was
headed "That Portrait/'

On Thursday last we had a note from our friend Colonel Stark,
of Norfolk, who is summering at Virginia Beach, to introduce Mrs.
Stella E. P. Drake, a relative by descent of Theodosia Burr Alston,
the daughter of Aaron Burr, whose mysterious fate has been the
romance of our earlier history and has given rise to various conjec-
tures as to her loss on the voyage from South Carolina to New York
to meet her father on his return from his exile in Europe, in 1812. We
called on Mrs. Drake at the Albemarle House, and found that the
object of her visit to our town was to ascertain by personal examination
whether a portrait now in possession of the family of the late Dr.
Poole, of Pasquotank County, was really a painting of Theodosia
Burr Alston, which had been claimed and commented on by the
press of the county at various times within the last six or eight years.
We have been familiar with that painting for many years, long before
it had come into the possession of Dr. Poole, and it had been indelibly
impressed upon our memory, and we had supposed that the opinion
that it was a portrait of Mrs. Alston, that it was cast ashore at Kitty-
hawk, in January, 1813, and saved by the husband of Mrs. Mann,
from whom Dr. Poole had obtained it, was not borne out bv the dates,

i/

but when we saw Mrs. Drake on Thursday, we were startled by
her close resemblance to the portrait in question. The same type
of female beauty, the same brunette complexion, the same jet hair,
the same piercing black eye, the same petite person. The resem-
blance was startling, and when we reflected that remote kindred genera-
tions often reproduce the same face, we for the first time doubted the
correctness of our conclusions. We gave Mrs. Drake all the informa-
tion we had of the portrait, and such other information as might
throw light upon her pious mission, and we learn that she visited the
family of Dr. Poole, examined the painting, compared it with the

HER SUPPOSED FATE 385

engraved likenesses of Theodosia Burr in Davis' Life of Burr, and
also with that in Parton's Life of Burr, and from a comparison of
dates and facts connected with the portrait in possession of the family
of Dr. Poole and other information furnished, she was convinced that
the portrait was in truth a likeness of Theodosia Burr Alston. The
history of Mrs. Alston is tragic and romantic.

In the Boston Sunday Journal of April 6, 1902,
there was an article signed by Frank W. Levering.
The display head read as follows: "Mystery of
Theodosia Burr Solved. Mrs. S. E. P. Drake, a
Fourth Cousin of the Famous Daughter of Aaron
Burr, Tells a Remarkable Story to the Sunday Jour-
nal." In relating the communication, it should be
remembered that Mrs. S. E. P. Drake and the Mrs.
Stella E. P. Drake referred to in the article in the
Economist are the same person. Mrs. Drake says she
wrote to the Washington Post in 1878, but her letter as
given in "The Tuttle Family" is dated July 27, 1879.

It is almost a century long, this story. I believe what I am going
to tell you even as I believe that I am alive this very moment. It is a
story which time has made a part of my own life. It is involved,
greatly involved, but it is all very clear to me. Some of it is tradition;
some of it is fact, because I know what I have seen; I believe the
tradition too; traditions which have been handed down in my family
for many years.

To begin at the very beginning: When a little girl my mother used
to rock me to sleep, telling me a wonderful tale of pirates and how
they had caused Theodosia Burr to walk the plank to a fearful death
beneath the waves of the ocean. Time and again she told the story.
I never tired of it. Repetition made it almost real. My grandmother
was the first to hear it, and she told it to my mother. It came about
in this way:

DYING PIRATE'S CONFESSION

In 1850 an old man, who years before had been a sailor, then an
inmate of the Cass County Poorhouse at Cassopolis. Mich., in con-

386 THEODOSIA

versing with a lady, Mrs. Parks, the wife of a Methodist minister,
about his past life, filled with wrong-doing and crime, said that the
act which above all others caused him the most remorse was the tip-
ping of the plank on which Mrs. Alston, the daughter of Aaron Burr,
walked into the ocean.

The tale of this dying sinner was substantially as follows: "I was
once a sailor on a pirate vessel. We captured the ship on which this
lady, with others, was going to New York. When told she must walk
the plank, she asked for a few moments alone, which were granted.

Finally she was informed that her time had expired, and without
hesitancy she came forward, dressed beautifully in white, the loveliest
woman I had ever seen. Calmly she stepped upon the plank, and
with eyes raised to heaven, and hands crossed reverently over her breast,
she walked slowly and firmly into the ocean, without an apparent
tremor. I had no time to really tip the plank, but watched her, trans-
fixed at her marvelous beauty, amazed at her indescribable fortitude.

REGRETTED THE ACT

Had I refused to perform my allotted work, as I wish with all my
heart I had, my death would have been sure and certain."

That is the pirate's story. I believe it, for it is the testimony of an
almost dying man, the confession of the most terrible act of his life.
And it seems to me that when an old man, bemoaning his life, filled
to the brim with sin, makes such a confession without any provoca-
tion whatever other than the unburdening of his soul during his prepa-
ration for another life — his death came soon after — there must be
truth in his statements.

My grandmother, the granddaughter of Timothy Edwards, the
eldest son of Jonathan Edwards, second President of Princeton College,
became the wife of James McKinney of Binghamton, N. Y., and
with him removed to Sturgis, Mich., in 1836. In 1848, having again
removed, this time to Cassopolis, Mich., she became acquainted with
Mrs. Parks, as I have already described. Mrs. Parks, deeply in-
terested in religious matters, spent much time at the Cassopolis Poor-
house distributing tracts. Time introduced her to the sailor, whose
story I have repeated as my mother told it to me, and then it was that
he made the fearful confession. Mrs. Parks told the tale to my grand-
mother, and she to my mother, and from her I first heard it — as a
child in the cradle, almost.

[ HER SUPPOSED FATE 387

You can easily imagine how the weird tale affected me. I read
with deepest interest everything concerning the Burrs I could find,
particularly about poor Theodosia. Fate meantime prescribed most
strangely. I was living at that time in Sturgis, Mich., in my father's
home, where many Chicago newspapers came into the house. Even
as to-day, I read the papers then with deepest interest, and was both
surprised and pleased to come across a short article concerning Theo-
dosia Burr. It was a review of an address given in 1878 by Col. J. H.
Wheeler before the North Carolina Historical Society, in the course
of which he made the statement that he had recently seen a portrait
of a painting owned by Dr. Pool of Elizabeth City, N. C., which pur-
ported to represent Aaron Burr's daughter.

This review of the lecture described in detail the finding of the
picture, and apparently threw so much light upon the case that I,
then little more than a girl, immediately wrote the editor of the Wash-
ington Post a letter, in which I related the tradition of the pirate,
dying in a Michigan poorhouse, whose name was Benjamin Franklin
Burdick, commonly known, my grandmother said, as Old Frank.

This letter was printed the latter part of July, 1878. Shortly after
that, the New Orleans Democrat took the matter up, and consolidated
both stories. From that day I resolved that I would see this portrait
of Theodosia Burr.

MRS. DRAKE SEES THE PICTURE

It was for me that the first photographic reproduction of the pic-
ture was made. From that photograph, made by a traveling artist,
I had enlarged this picture (taking from a package the photograph
which is reproduced in half-tone in connection with this story).

And now, as well as any time, I will relate the incidents of the
finding of the original, and how I came at last to see it. My father
and mother were at Virginia Beach, N. C., for the summer of '88, and
I joined them there after a visit in Massachusetts. One dark, stormy
day, while we were looking out on the ocean from the veranda of the
Princess Ann, I said:

"Father, are we near Nag's Head, where Dr. Pool found the sup-
posed portrait of Theodosia Burr?"

He replied by suggesting that I ask the hotel clerk, who would
probably be able to give me the information. I did so, and found
that Nag's Head, where the portrait was found, and Elizabeth

388 THEODOSIA

City, where the Pool family lived, were only a few miles down the

coast.

I then told the story of the portrait and of my desire to see it. He
became interested and said that an old friend of Dr. Pool's — Colonel
Starke, a lawyer in Norfolk - - was summering at the Princess Ann,
and that he would see the Colonel and ask him to call upon my father.
Colonel Starke called the same day, and the result was that the next day
found me on my way to Elizabeth City, with letters of introduction
from Colonel Starke to the Pool family, to his friend, Mr. Creasy, the
editor of the, Elizabeth City (N. C.) Economist, and to the proprietors
of the Albemarle House. Upon arriving at my destination, and al-
most immediately after presenting my letters of credentials, I was called
upon by Mr. Creasy, the editor, and also by the proprietor of the
Albemarle. Both men; with the characteristic hospitality of the
Southern race, entered heartily into my plans to see the portrait.

Mr. Creasy had much to say of the finding of the portrait by Mr.
Pool, and after an agreeable talk of a half hour, bade me adieu, with
the hope that I would be able to prove the portrait a Burr.

Soon after, with the proprietor of the Albemarle, I started on my
way to Eyrie, the plantation of the Pools.

STRANGE INTUITION

I need not describe the place. The original Pool mansion had
been burned previously, and I found the family living in a smaller
dwelling, with one of those old-fashioned hallways and hospitable
rooms on either side. Passing into the house and having presented
my letter of introduction to Miss Pool, daughter of the Doctor, she
invited me into the parlor. As I turned to go through the door, I saw
upon the wall above the mantelpiece a portrait of a young woman in
white.

'That is the picture," I exclaimed. "I know it is, because it bears
a strong resemblance to my sister!"

Miss Pool listened in amazement, for she had not yet pointed the
portrait out to me, while I related that my sister, who is now Mrs.
Catherine D. Herbert of Idaho Falls, la., bore a striking resemblance
to the picture above the mantel. The moment I looked upon that
portrait I felt certain that it was Theodosia Burr. Why ?

Because of our blood relationship. She was my fourth COUF:~,
and you know it has been proven more than once that remote kindied

HER SUPPOSED FATE 389

generations often produce the same face. It does not appear that
any other in the Edwards family resembled the picture of Theodosia
save my sister, although Mr. Creasy, the editor, with whom I con-
versed, said that he noted a look about the eyes and an expression
upon my face at times as I conversed that was unmistakably like that
in the picture, though he had not seen it for twenty years.

SISTER'S STRONG LIKENESS

This picture of my sister (handing the writer a photograph which
is here reproduced) was posed in imitation of Theodosi? some years
ago. Do you note the striking resemblance ? Isn't it remarkable ?
Do you see any reason why I should disbelieve that the original pic-
ture is really of Theodosia Burr ? Of course, I have no other evidence
to convince me save that of the law of consanguinity, but to me that
is amply sufficient.

The portrait of Theodosia is on wood, beautifully executed, and
quite evidently by a master. It shows her in a white empire gown —
such a gown, undeniably, as a woman of Theodosia's cast would wear
— and with her hair dressed in a style most common a hundred years
ago. The portrait may be 12 by 18 inches square. As the photograph
shows, it had been damaged by fire at the time I saw it - - by the fire
which destroyed the mansion of the Pools at Eyrie.

However, I find myself diverging. Let us go back to my first
meeting wTith the portrait. After I had recovered myself, I turned
to Miss Pool and related in detail the story I have told you of the
dying pirate in the Michigan poorhouse. She listened with growing
wonder to the end. Then she said: " Let me tell you now my story
of how that portrait came into my possession." And then she told
me a most extraordinary tale - - but I believe it.

PAINTING FOUND IN A WRECK

"My father was W. G. Pool, a physician," Miss Pool said. "In
the course of his career, he was called, some eight or ten years ago
(in 1868 or 1870), to visit, in his professional capacity, a family near
what is known as Nag's Head, or Kittyhawk, not far from Elizabeth
City, on Cape Hatteras. Then a small child, I went with him. The
woman, a Mrs. Mann, was very sick. She had no faith in doctors
sr d did not believe that father could do her any good, though she had
consented to call him. When he and I entered the little house for the

390 THEODOSIA

first time, I was struck by a picture of a beautiful young woman hang-
ing on the wall. For moments at a time I stared at the portrait, say-
ing again and again that it was the most beautiful picture I had ever
seen.

"Whenever father went to attend the sick woman, I begged to be
taken along that I might gaze at the portrait, and many times my
wish was granted. At last, father tried to buy the picture, but the
woman refused to sell it at any price. She told, however, a startling
story. Years before, she said, she had been wooed by a youth who
was a fisherman.

A LOVER'S GIFTS

"One day he brought her a number of gifts among which was the
portrait. There were also two silk dresses, one black and the other
white, and a lace head covering, such as Southern women wear. The
dresses were made of beautiful material - - of such material as Theo-
dosia Burr would certainly affect. The woman, who subsequently
became Mrs. Mann, asked her lover where he obtained the presents,
and he replied that he found them on a vessel which he and other
fishermen had boarded.

"These men were believed to be 'bankers,' a rough class of men
who earn a livelihood by picking up all species of flotsam and jetsam
along the coast. It is said that they used to lure ships upon the rocks
for the sake of plundering them, by tying a string of lanterns about a
horse's head at night, and causing the animal to walk up and down
the beach. The sailors, seeing the bobbing lights, would frequently
make for the shore, their craft would run aground, and opportunity
for plundering was thus easily presented."

STRANGE UNMANNED CRAFT ASHORE

Continuing, however, Miss Pool said: "Mrs. Mann's lover recited
to her how that morning, just at dawn, he and his companions had
descried a small pilot boat driving straight towards Nag's Head,
with rudder set and all sails drawing. Not a soul was visible on the
craft, and after she struck, the men boarded her. Careful inspection
revealed nothing as to her identity. Abandoned, she had headed for
Cape Hatteras in the height of a terrible gale. One of the cabins had
evidently been recently occupied by a woman, and in that cabin was
this portrait and the articles of feminine wearing apparel. These the

HER SUPPOSED FATE 391

lover appropriated as his share of the salvage, and afterwards presented
them to his sweetheart."

Miss Pool doubted my story of the pirates at first. I reasoned
with her for some time, using the facts she had told me to strengthen
my case.

"But," she said, "when pirates board a vessel, do they not scuttle it
and set it afire?"

'That may be true," I replied, "but there are many ways one may
look at this matter. Remember that all this occurred in the days of
the second war with England, and it is by no means impossible that
an English, or even an American man-o'-war may have run across
the track of the little vessel, and compelled the pirates to flee for their
lives." In the end I think I convinced Miss Pool that my phase of
the question might be true.

PORTRAIT STILL EXISTS

And this is about all there is to the story. The supposed portrait
of Theodosia Burr is now owned by Dr. Pool's daughter, who is Mrs.
Overman of Elizabeth City. The picture finally came into Dr. Pool's
possession as a gift from Mrs. Mann, who presented it to him because
he had instilled in her a real faith in the power of physicians to heal
the sick.

There is no doubt that Theodosia Burr set sail from Charleston
for New York to meet her father, but whether she took with her a
portrait as a gift is to a certain degree conjecture. In view of the
extraordinary facts concerning this picture, now owned by Mrs. Over-
man, I am certain that she did. In view of the facts concerning the
deathbed confession of the pirate, I am equally certain that she met
her death at the hands of a lawless band, of which he was a member.
In view of the possibilities offered by the presence of warships in the
waters near Cape Hatteras, at that time, there is ample reason to be-
lieve that the pirates were frightened away before they had a chance
to scuttle the Patriot, and that it subsequently came ashore with
those things in the cabin which Mrs. Mann's youthful lover found and
presented to her.

To my mind, everything dovetails in to a nicety, settling without
question the manner in which fair Theodosia met her fate. She died
at the hands of lawless men near Cape Hatteras - - times before and
since the grave of the fearless and gallant — with the wild foam of

392 THEODOSIA

the Atlantic for her winding-sheet and the fierce north wind for her
requiem.

Mrs. Drake's "pirate story' was published on
April 6, 1902. It was widely copied. Among the
newspapers giving it publicity were the Augusta (Me.)
Journal; the Tilton (N. H.) Enterprise on May 5;
the Gardiner (Me.) Independence on May 10; the
Philadelphia Press on July 20; the Boston Sunday
Post on September 14; the New York Sun on Sep-
tember 15; the Bangor (Me.) Commercial on Septem-
ber 16; the Wilkesbarre (Pa.) News on September
21; the Portsmouth (N. H.) Times, October 15;
the Lebanon (Pa.) Times on October 16; the Fall
River (Mass.) Herald, October 20; the El Paso
(Texas) Herald on November 1; the New York
Journal on November 2; the Salt Lake City (Utah)
Herald, November 2; the Southbridge (Mass.) Press,
November 15; the Freeland (Penn.) Tribune, Novem-
ber 19; and the Knoxville (Tenn.) Tribune, April 29,
1903; on November 9 the New York Journal -Amer-
ican printed an article containing portraits of Mrs.
Drake, Mrs. E. M. Miller, of Salt Lake City, two of
Mrs. Drake's sisters, besides one of Theodosia. In
this article Mrs. Drake's story was put into a new
form containing the essential particulars. On No-
vember 10 Mrs. Drake's version appeared again in
the Salt Lake City Herald.

On July 13, 1902, the Houston (Texas) Post
printed the 'pirate story' previously given, which
appeared originally in the Alabama Journal, then in
the Mobile Register, and later in the New York Sun.

The "pirate story' was not allowed to go unchal-
lenged, although it really could not be contradicted.

HER SUPPOSED FATE 393

An aged member of the Alston family, a resident of
Washington, D. C., in the New York Times Satur-
day Review of May 31, 1902, gave what he considered
to be "The True Story of her Death at Sea," refer-
ring, of course, to Theodosia.

Your most valuable and interesting paper from time to time passed
in review the above named. Will you allow the writer to set the story
at rest, for all time, by sending you a true account of the tragic fate
of this lovely and accomplished woman ?

Soon after the war of 1812 there were almost yearly accounts of her
sad end, and naturally most distressing to the family in Carolina and
to her father and many friends in New York. Pirates when about to ex-
piate their fearful crimes at the "yard arm" made full and free confes-
sions of having been present when this beautiful woman was made to
" walk the plank " from more than one piratical craft. Many years have
now elapsed, and these sensational accounts have well-nigh been ex-
hausted, and the "portraits "of her have been discussed in your Review.

Those interested in her will read with much pleasure the corre-
spondence between Aaron Burr and his daughter after her marriage
to Joseph Alston of South Carolina. Her letters were from Hagley
and the Oaks, rice plantations of theirs, on the Waccamaw River,
South Carolina, and from the old Alston residence on King Street,
Charleston. This volume is, of course, out of print, but may possibly
be found in some private library in New York, as those at the South
were mostly burned during the un-civil war. Those letters would of
course only be of interest to those who would appreciate her home life
at the South. The devotion which existed between father and daughter
was very great; he had spared no pains on her education and was
proud of her intelligence and many fine traits, and she had returned
the same with, as will be seen, her undying love. The summer home
of the Alstons was on Debordieu Island, on the coast, some 100 miles
north of Charleston. The old house is still standing, and, having
withstood the storms of a century, is occupied in the summer months
by a niece of Governor Alston. Here, during the war of 1812, Theo-
dosia lost her only son, a most promising boy, twelve years of age,
and the idol of his parents. The blow was a crushing one, and on the
return of Governor Alston's younger brother from Yale College, as

394 THEODOSIA

soon as he entered her darkened chamber, she exclaimed, "Have you
seen my father ?" The writer only mentions this as an evidence of her
great love for him. Her one desire now was to go to him in New York.
By the laws of Carolina, at the period I write of, no Governor
could leave the State during his official term, but apart from this the
existing war compelled him to remain, even if such a law had not
existed. A long journey by land, which at this period would consume
weeks, and in her present frame of mind was out of the question; so
a pilot boat was fitted out for her, though this, too, was attended with
great inconvenience and danger, as the British fleet was then lying
off the "capes." The boat was deemed safe and seaworthy, and for
ballast carried tierces of rice to defray expenses in New York, and so
the heart-broken mother, accompanied by several of her devoted ser-
vants, who refused to be left behind, sailed away forever from her
Southern home, beloved by all who knew her. The captain of the
vessel carried with him a letter from Governor Alston to the British
Admiral, requesting under the circumstances a safe permit through
the fleet to New York. The non-arrival of the vessel was, of course,
a great source of anxiety, which became more intense as weeks and
months passed; but for long and weary months all hope had not ex-
pired. The war was now over, Governor Alston had died, and no
truthful intelligence had been received of the pilot boat or Theodosia
till General Thomas Pinckney, a near connection of the family in
Carolina, met at a dinner party in London the Admiral of the fleet
already alluded to, who stated to him "that the letter of Governor
Alston had been received and read by him and the request promptly
granted, but that a very violent storm had arisen during the night
and the fleet was scattered, and doubtless the pilot boat and all on
board were lost." This was the first reliable information which
had been received, and the family accepted it as absolutely true.
Long years have now elapsed, and nothing more was heard of the
ill-fated vessel save the newspaper fabrication alluded to, when in
1878 the following letter was received by Mrs. W. B. P., who in-
herited the old residence on King Street, Charleston, already mentioned:

ELIZABETH CITY, N. C., July 28, 1878.
Dear Madam:

I enclose you a photo of the painting I believe to be a portrait of
Mrs. Alston. It has been sent to many of the relatives of Colonel

HER SUPPOSED FATE 395

Burr in New York and elsewhere, who all see in it a strong resemblance,
but as none living there recollect to have ever seen Theodosia, they
cannot say positively if it is of her. We are fortunate and happy to
have found in you one who knew Mrs. Alston and who now has a
vivid recollection of her appearance. Be so good, after carefully
examining it, to give me your impression and views. The history of
this painting makes it almost certain that it is of Theodosia. The
wife of Wheeler, the historian, of North Carolina, the daughter of
the painter Sully, pronounced it to be clearly of her, as do also other
artists who have seen it.

Yours respectfully,

W. G. POOL.
MRS. W. B. P.

Then the following account of the portrait is given:

THEODOSIA BURR

This lady took passage on the schooner Patriot, which crossed the
Charleston bar ( ?) December 31, 1812. Until the last moments of his
life, the husband was racked with the belief that the vessel had been
captured by pirates. . . . The authority of the present clue is a
gentleman of culture and fortune. Among a valuable collection of
paintings in his private gallery is an original Theodosia Burr Alston,
the possession of which came about as follows: Near Kitty Hawk,
on the coast of North Carolina - - now so sadly known as the scene of
the loss of the Huron and the Metropolis in the winter of 1877-78 -
lived an aged and weather-beaten pilot, who, taken sick, sent for a
physician, and as the doctor had been successful in his treatment and
was about to leave his patient, the latter said he "had no money, but
would compensate him for his trouble when was able to work." The
doctor remarked that there was something of his which he would like
to have, unless it had some association which would render parting
from it a sacrifice, and pointed to the portrait of a beautiful woman
on the wall. The pilot did not value the picture, nor did he know
who it was. The physician asked how he came into possession of it,
and was told that years ago, on a night in January, 1813, after a storm
of such force as was not remembered by the oldest people then living
on the coast, several vessels were thrown ashore, and when the weather
went down, so that he could head the breakers, he pulled off to one of

396 THEODOSIA

the vessels, a little schooner. Everything had been swept from her;
books were scattered about, and in his search for some records of the
vessel's destination, crew, and passengers, he came across a set of
silver and that picture, and brought them away. A gentleman resid-
ing in the neighborhood of Kitty Hawk, during a second visit to Wash-
ington, happened to hear a conversation about Aaron Burr — to
confirm the remark of Theodosia's beauty, a picture of the lady was
produced. After his return to North Carolina he was visiting an old
friend who was struck with the resemblance of a portrait hanging
before him and the picture he had seen of Theodosia in Washington.
The writer in concluding an article already too lengthy will only
add that the British Admiral's statement of his having passed the pilot
boat through his fleet and the violent gale which followed the same
night prove most conclusively that the boat was lost, and it is simply
absurd to attach any importance to the "pirate story" in a fierce storm
and in the midst of the British fleet. The boat may or may not have
been cast ashore. The portrait may or may not have been that of
Theodosia. The lady written to, with the hope of its being recognized,
was a near and very dear relative of the writer, and was the youngest
sister of Governor Joseph Alston, but was a little girl when TheodosLa
sailed from Charleston, and could not therefore trace in the photo
sent her any resemblance. Of course the sailing of the Patriot on the
31st of December, 1812, and the date given by the old seaman in
January, 1813, when he boarded the wreck, are worthy of credit, and
had the name in the books, or even the letters on the silver, been pre-
served, the wreck of this particular vessel would have been established,
but the writer rather inclines to the opinion of the British Admiral,
that the little boat, heavily laden, had gone to the bottom with all
aboard. Of course it was natural that the "story of pirates" was
listened to, when the people of Charleston recalled the days when
that harbor was the scene of such severe conflict with them — when
Steed Bonnett, their leader, and forty of his crew were captured, and a
number of women released who were found between decks. These
pirates were all hanged and buried at the intersection of South and
East Battery, Charleston, and the only one who showed the "white
feather" was their captain, Steed Bonnett, an Englishman of educa-
tion, who had to be dragged to the gallows in a fainting condition.
The harbor of Charleston is noted as having been the scene of three
great engagements: that of the piratical vessels under Steed Bonnett

HER SUPPOSED FATE 397

and those of the Colony under Colonel Rhett, and here was fought,
in 1776, the memorable battle of Fort Moultrie and the British fleet
under Sir Peter Parker, and again in the great civil war, when for so
many long and weary months Fort Sumter gallantly defended the city
and prevented its capture. But this is a digression. Doubtless these
historic forts will in future be called upon to defend the city from a
foreign foe.

An engraving of Theodosia can be seen at the Corcoran Gallery
among the St. Memin collection.

J. M. A.

WASHINGTON, May 24, 1902.

This communication provoked a reply from Mr.
Wm. L. Stone, which was printed in the same paper
that contained J. M. A.'s original article.

Regarding your correspondent, "Mr. J. M. A.'s" extremely in-
teresting letter to the Times Saturday Review of Books of to-day, I
would sav that I do not think he has made out his case. At the most

«/

he only throws doubt on the "pirate story." For example, the expres-
sion of the British Admiral, who at a dinner said that after he had re-
ceived Governor Alston's letter a violent storm had arisen. . . . That
doubtless the pilot boat was lost gives us nothing but the Admiral's
conjecture. Had he said that he or his crew had seen the pilot boat
go down, that statement would have ended all of this controversy;
but, as I say, this was only his opinion. Now, for that matter, after
the storm — and we may suppose that the pilot boat was staunch
and seaworthy, as "J. M. A." says it was - - a pirate may easily
have intercepted the boat on which Mrs. Alston was; and again as it
is well known that a pirate after capturing a vessel - - unless the
vessel is better than his own — either scuttles it or sends it adrift,
after rifling it of its contents; therefore, why may not this schooner
which, according to our friend, " J. M. A.," was thrown ashore, have,
after the occupants had been forced to "walk the plank," drifted
where it was found ? Indeed, all that the old fisherman found was a
picture, a silver set (perhaps overlooked by the pirates) and books
thrown helter-skelter — just as pirates (having no use for books)
would have been apt to do. But if the schooner was not captured,
but had merely drifted ashore, certainly more would have been found

398 THEODOSIA

in her than a silver set, a picture, and books. At least some of the
unfortunate crew and passengers would have been found below stairs,
for they would not have come up on deck merely to be washed over.

Now, in contravention to the Admiral's dinner story — as I say,
merely his conjecture - - 1 send you a clipping from the Mobile Register
of May 23, 1833:

The fate of Mrs. Alston, the accomplished lady of Governor Alston
of South Carolina, and daughter of Aaron Burr, has been shrouded
in mystery for more than twenty years. Occasionally, indeed, some
gleams of light have been thrown around her melancholy end, and the
belief is that she fell a victim to piratical atrocity. Some three years
ago it was currently reported that a man residing in one of the in-
terior counties of this State made some disclosures on his deathbed
which went to confirm the confessions previously made by a culprit
on the gallows, that the vessel in which Mrs. Alston sailed was scuttled
for the sake of her plate and effects. The following article, which we
copy from the Alabama Journal, goes to throw some additional light
on the subject. The facts mentioned in it are new to us and will be
probably to most of our readers :

CONFESSION OF A PIRATE

The public, no doubt, remembers the story of the daughter of
Aaron Burr, who was the wife of Governor Alston of South Carolina.
On the return of her father from Europe, about the year 1812, she
embarked from Charleston ( ?) on a visit to him at New York, on board
a privateer-built vessel, and was never heard of afterward. It seems
that her friends at first thought that the vessel had fallen into the
hands of pirates, and afterward concluded that it was wrecked and
lost. It appears from the statement of a respectable merchant of Mo-
bile that a man died in that city recently who confessed to his phy-
sician on his dying bed that he had been a pirate and helped to destroy
the vessel and all the crew and passengers, on which Mrs. Alston had
embarked for New York. He declared, says this gentleman, that after
the men were all killed, there was an unwillingness on the part of every
pirate to take the life of Mrs. Alston, who had not resisted them or
fought them, and therefore they drew lots who should perform the
deed, as it had to be done. The lot fell on this pirate, who declares
that he effected his object of putting the lady to death by laying a plank
along the edge of the ship, half on it and half off, or over the edge,

I HER SUPPOSED FATE 399

and made Mrs. Alston walk on that plank till it tilted over into the
water with her. The dying pirate requested his physician to make
this story public, but his surviving family will not permit or consent
that the name of the deceased should be known.

The above tale was repeated over and over by the merchant before
mentioned in the presence of a number of gentleman whose names
can be given. He said he received it from the physician himself with
no other injunction to secrecy than that he should not disclose the
name of the physician for the present. On being asked if the physician
was a man of veracity and respectability, he replied there was no one
more so in Mobile. The merchant was warned that his story would
get into the newspapers, to which he made no objection.

Now, certainly this precise statement should be placed against
the Admiral's story, which, as I have said, was merely his opinion.
Finally, I am under the impression that when "Babe" the pirate
was taken, my father (the late Col. William L. Stone) visited him in
his confinement and endeavored to procure from him a statement that
he was the one who captured the schooner in which Mrs. Alston had
taken passage, and while "Babe" refused to make any denial either
pro or con regarding it, yet the very fact that my father endeavored
to get from him a confession, showed what the general consensus of
opinion was at that time. My father, as you are aware, was an inti-
mate personal friend of Burr — hence his efforts to obtain the truth.

As your correspondent says, Theodosia was, indeed, a most lovely
and cultivated woman, as two or three autograph letters from her to
her father (in my possession) show. These letters were given my
father by Burr.

WILLIAM L. STONE.

MOUNT VERNON, N. Y., June 3, 1902.

On June 4, 1902, J. M. A. wrote to the author of
"Blennerhassett": "Your recent letter received . . .
I fear the ' pirate story ' will never cease. I thought I
had made a clear statement. Suppose this pilot
boat had not gone down in the gale off the Capes,
but had been cast ashore off the coast of North Caro-
lina. . . . Certainly no pirates would have left the
picture behind."

400 THEODOSIA

A communication in reply to the preceding was
answered on June 9.

Your esteemed favor received this A. M. Copy of Boston Jour-
nal was also received. . . .

Governor Joseph Alston was my uncle. He was the eldest son of
Colonel William Alston, my grandfather. General Thomas Pinckney
and my grandfather married sisters, daughters of Mrs. Rebecca Motte.
My father, Colonel Thomas Pinckney Alston, gave me the history of
the pilot boat and of Theodosia. You must remember in those days
all this account was not published as is the fashion now. General
Pinckney 's account was accepted as absolutely true, and his family
heard all the early accounts. The pirates' confessions, etc., only
rendered the loss more painful and notorious. I feel some regret at
having published the article in The Times, for it seems that the
pirate story has taken such deep root that the gifted Theodosia's end
would really be nothing without it, for I see in the last issue of Satur-
day Book Review, a writer says that the British Admiral did not see
the boat go down. If in this life we had to see all things to believe,
few of us would reach Heaven. I am in my 82d year, and I believe
in much t lat I do not see.

Stimulated, no doubt, by a perusal of the 'pirate
story," a writer in the Denver (Colo.) Post of Decem-
ber 28, 1902, presented a new version of it with the
caption - - " Claims to be Son of Aaron Burr and
Half-breed Woman. 5:

DETROIT, MICH., Dec. 27, 1902. — Charles Henry Burr Crosby,
108 years old, who resides with his son at 515 St. Antoine Street, in
this city, has letters tending to show that he is the son of Aaron Burr,
Vice-president of the United States during the first term of Jefferson.
His story of Burr's last days is an interesting one and further con-
firms his claim of being the son of the famous lawyer.

When Burr came back to this country, Crosby says, after his duel
with Hamilton, poor in health and with little left of his former fortune,
he managed to exist on a meagre law practice. His wife had died
when he met a woman of mixed Negro and Indian blood with whom
he fell in love. The woman's father had been brought from Africa

Mrs. Rebecca Motte, connected, by marriage,
with the Alston family.

HER SUPPOSED FATE 401

as a slave. He was owned by Prince Henry, a wealthy slave-owner.
Later, his wife, an Indian woman, purchased his freedom for $300.

The new bride of Burr was a handsome woman, and for her position
in life was fairly refined. Crosby says that he was their only son.
He is well educated and can speak three languages. He was born in
England, March 21, 1794, Burr having sent the woman there owing to
a popular indignation against the union. The son returned to this
country in 1809 with his mother.

When the son had grown to be a young man. his famous father
died. His mother married a man by the name of Crosby, a livery-
man in Philadelphia. Soon after the young man married Mary Ann
Jackson, a woman of the same mixed nationality as his mother. She
also is still alive at the age of 110. She lives with a daughter in De-
troit, as the home of Othello Crosby is not large enough to accom-
modate both the old folks.

This strange old man tells a story which seems to throw light on
the disappearance of Theodosia Burr Alston, his half-sister, whose
mysterious fate has puzzled the world for almost a century. Theo-
dosia Burr was considered one of the most beautiful and talented
women in America.

She sailed from Charleston, (?) S. C., on the ship Patriot, for her
father's home in New York. So much history knows. Her fate has
been a mystery for which many solutions have been offered, but none
susceptible of absolute proof.

Crosby shipped as cook on the sloop Independence. They had
not been at sea long when they rescued two men on a raft. One was
a white man, the other an Indian. When picked up they gave their
names as Gibbs and Wamley. They said they they were ship-
wrecked merchants. As they were willing to work, they were per-
mitted to remain on board, but when the sloop reached New York,
they were turned over to the authorities as suspicious characters.

One night while Crosby was lying in his bunk in the forecastle,
he overhead the two men talking. "Look and see if that cook's
sleeping," said the white man, and the Indian declared he was. Then
the two began to curse their hard fate. In the conversation that
followed Crosby learned that they were shipwrecked pirates. The
white man was disgusted with himself over something, and finally
blurted out: "It's a shame we made that pretty gal walk the plank
with the rest of the crew. We might have saved her."

402 THEODOSIA

Crosby knew they were talking of his half-sister, and when he
reached New York, told his father, Aaron Burr, about Theodosia's
death. Burr was then convinced that his daughter had been mur-
dered. He located the pirates and prosecuted them until they were
hanged, but never mentioned his daughter's name through the whole
trial.

Anything more absurd than this could hardly be
conceived. It has all the attributes of untruthful-
ness and historical impossibility. Mr. Crosby says
he was born in 1794, the year in which Mrs. Theo-
dosia Prevost Burr died. At that time, Colonel Burr
was a Senator. Mr. Crosby says Colonel Burr did
not marry his mother until after Burr's return from
Europe, which was in 1812. Accepting both of Mr.
Crosby's statements as correct, he must have been
born at least eighteen years before Colonel Burr
'met' his mother. As Colonel Burr did not die
until 1836, this 'reputed' son must have been at
least 42 years of age at the time. Who the "she' is
who "is still alive at the age of 110" it is impossible
to learn from the context. If 'she" is his wife, why
should she live apart from her husband, and why
did Charles Burr take the name of his mother's
second husband, if his right name was Burr ? And
who are "both " the old folks ?

As the Lowell (Mass.) News said on January 7,
1903, 'Of course Crosby is entitled to a father.
But Crosby must be more carefully on his guard
against dates and details or they will hopelessly
orphan him. Of course any charge is permissible
against Aaron Burr. But there must be no assaults
against impregnable and fixed dates."

The more the article is considered, it becomes less

I HER SUPPOSED FATE 403

ludicrous and more contemptible. It is only one of
the hundreds of fabrications that have been printed
about Colonel Burr, which, when examined, are
found to be as mendacious as the one just cited, and
which would not have been printed here had not the
purpose of the writer been to present both truth and
untruth, so that no charge of suppression of fact ( ?)
could truthfully be brought against him.

Mr. L. L. Knight, the author of many interesting
historical articles, in 1903 wrote one entitled "Aaron
Burr and his Gifted Daughter Theodosia.': It will
be seen that he did not believe the "pirate story" (95).

Despite the fact that every effort was made to find some trace of
the unfortunate vessel it was all fruitless. Some have supposed that
the boat was captured by pirates, but there is little evidence to support
the conjecture. Governor Alston, whose health was already under-
mined at the time of this tragic occurrence, survived the shock for
only three years, dying in the summer of 1816; while Burr, whose sense
of bereavement was no less acute, was fortified by an iron constitution
which enabled him to bear his misfortune, and for more than two
decades he continued to struggle with fate, yet never with the same
glow of encouragement which once filled his heart, or with the same
look in his eyes.

More crushing than the blow which hurled him from the high
office of Vice-president of the United States and condemned him to
public execration as one who had betrayed or sought to betray his
country, was the grief which he felt over the mysterious loss of his
daughter; and on more than one occasion, when his privacy was
unexpectedly intruded upon, it is said that the tear-drops could be
seen trickling down his cheeks as he clutched an open letter in his
hands, showing the bitterness of the grief which he nursed in secret.

The following, published in 1905, is taken from a
volume of stories and sketches by a resident of
Elizabeth City, North Carolina (96) :

The Patriot was lost during the winter of 1812. On the voyage

404 THEODOSIA

from Georgetown, S. C., to New York, it would pass the North Caro-
lina coast. The sea at this time was infested by pirates. A band of
these bold buccaneers may have boarded the little vessel and compelled
passengers and crew to "walk the plank." Becoming alarmed at
the appearance of some Government cruiser, they may, from motives
of prudence, have abandoned their prize.

This theory is not mere conjecture. Years ago, two criminals
executed in Norfolk, Va., are reported as having testified that they had
belonged to a piratical crew who boarded the Patriot and compelled
every soul on board to "walk the plank." The same confession
was made years subsequently by a mendicant dying in a Michi-
gan almshouse. This man said he would never forget the beautiful
face of Theodosia Burr as it sank beneath the waves, nor how elo-
quently she pleaded for her life, promising the pirates pardon and a
liberal reward if they would spare her. But they were relentless,
and she went to her doom with so dauntless and calm a spirit that
even the most hardened pirates were touched.

I cannot vouch for the truth of these confessions which have ap-
peared from time to time in print; I only introduce them as collateral
evidence in support of the banker woman's (Mrs. Mann) story. The
Patriot was supposed to have been wrecked off the coast of Hat-
teras during a terrific storm which occurred soon after it set sail.
This, however, was mere conjecture which has never been substan-
tiated by the slightest proof.

It is not improbable that the Patriot during a night of storm,
was lured ashore by the decoy lights at Nag's Head, and that pas-
sengers and crew fell into the hands of the land pirates in waiting,
who possessed themselves of the boat and everything of value it con-
tained.

This also, of course, is mere conjecture, but the all-important fact
remains that a pilot boat went ashore at Kitty Hawk during the winter
of 1812, and that in the cabin of this boat was a portrait of Theodosia
Burr.

Articles headed 'Old Painting Gives Clue to the
Fate of Theodosia Burr Alston. Tends to Prove
that Aaron Burr's Daughter was made to Walk the
Plank by Lafitte's Crew," appeared in the New York

HER SUPPOSED FATE 405

Herald of May 20, 1906, the Chicago Chronicle of
June 3, and the Seattle (Wash.) Post-Intelligencer of
July 1, accompanied by a picture showing Theo-
dosia walking the plank, and a reproduction of the
Nag's Head portrait said to resemble her.

A half-tone of the Nag's Head portrait was sent to
a professor, a resident of Chapel Hill, N. C., wrho
returned the following acknowledgment:

I thank you heartily for the picture of Mrs. Alston. She must have
been a woman of vivacity, beauty, and distinguished appearance.
We see these in her face. It seems to me improbable that she should
have hung up her portrait in the cabin of her packet. I suppose you
have seen the notice of the confession of a pirate in Wheeler's Remi-
niscences and elsewhere. My conclusion is that she was shipwrecked,
and I prefer to believe that such was her fate.

Has the whole story been told ? Has all the evi-
dence bearing upon the subject been collected ?
Fortunately, there still remain some threads to be
added to the skein of testimony. Whether they will
be considered 'confirmations strong as proofs of
holy writ' must be decided by the reader after their
perusal and comparison with the accumulated evi-
dence already presented.

CHAPTER XVI

HER CONFESSED EXECUTIONER

IN one of the "pirate stories" already given, the
name "Burdick" is mentioned. It also occurred
in an article printed in the Chicago Tribune, on
August 5, 1902, which was entitled: "The Fate of
Aaron Burr's Daughter."

An old resident of Washington said in a recent conversation: "The
fate of Theodosia, the beautiful daughter of Aaron Burr, has been
one of the appalling mysteries of sudden disappearance at sea. She
was married to Governor Alston of South Carolina, a name distin-
guished in the annals of that State. She sailed from Charleston
(Georgetown) for New York in the ship Patriot, on December 30th,
1812, on a visit to her father. The vessel was supposed to have been
either engulfed or captured by pirates, for it was thought that no soul
had survived to determine the awful doubt as to its fate or that of its
passengers. One account particularly arrested public attention, and
that was the purported confession of a pirate, Dominique You, which
Charles Gayarre incorporated into his brilliant, romantic, philosophic
'Fernando de Lemos.' It is so graphically drawn that many persons
thought at last the fate of Aaron Burr's only daughter was known.
An old sailor named Benjamin F. Burdick died recently a pauper in
a Michigan poorhouse. On his deathbed he made the startling con-
fession that he was one of the piratical crew that captured a vessel
named the Patriot and participated in the murder of Theodosia Burr
Alston at sea. Indeed, he declared that it fell to his lot to pull the
plank from under her. She came forth arrayed in white, holding a
Bible in one hand, and with heroic mien took her place on the slender
instrument of death, and without a shudder or quiver of a muscle
was precipitated into the sea. The noble, unblanched face, erect

406

HER CONFESSED EXECUTIONER 407

and airy form, he said, had haunted him all his subsequent life. The
date of the vessel's loss, January, 1813, was correctly given by Bur-
dick, and the name 'Odessa' Burr Alston was his only error; and yet
this was not an error, for the name of both father and husband are
sufficient identification. The corruption of 'Theodosia' into 'Odessa'
would be natural to an ignorant sailor and, if anything, tend to prove
that he had not been reading up to make himself a sort of deathbed
hero. At any rate, the confession is plausible for the reason named."

To the young boy, stories of pirates and buried
treasure have a great fascination. He has read of
Captain Kidd who plied his nefarious calling from
New York bay to the Gulf of Mexico, and the ac-
counts of fabulous buried chests of gold and jewels
which the most persistent search has failed to find.
If now grown up, memory brings back to him what
he read of Jean and Pierre Lafitte, who scoured the
Gulf of Mexico with La Belle Marie and carried
their ill-gotten plunder into Bayou Barataria and
other inlets near the mouth of the Mississippi. He
recalls how these same pirates became quondam
patriots and aided General Jackson at New Orleans
when Packenham and Wellington's veterans, and
Nelson's man Hardy, tested the temper and faced the
rifles of our Western frontiersmen.

As one surveys the literature of piracy, what a
galaxy of "heroes' is presented. Captain Teach,
known as Blackbeard; daring Edward England and
One-eyed Charlie Vane; Thomas Tew, Captain
Avery, John Halsey, (born in Boston!) Captain Con-
dent, Captain Bellamy, Captain Lewis, Sam Burgess,
and Tom Howard ; Captain Fly, who was hanged in
Boston Harbor; Caraccioti, who with his entire band
"died in their boots"; tender-hearted Thomas White,
who would not rob innocent children; the celebrated

408 THEODOSIA

Sir Henry Morgan, and last and least the craven-
hearted Steed Bonnett, who was dragged to the
scaffold and expiated his crimes in Charleston Har-
bor (97).

After the publication of ' Blennerhassett," its
author was brought into an extensive correspondence
with members of the Edwards and Burr families
resident in all sections of the Union. Some wrote
for information and others to supply it. One of his
most valued correspondents was Mrs. Harriette
Clarke Sprague, of Dowagiac, Michigan. This lady,
a niece of the late Mrs. Sarah J. Lippincott, known
to the literary world as 'Grace Greenwood," can
refer to an exceptional Revolutionary ancestry. Her
grandfather, Colonel John Clarke, was third cousin
to Aaron Burr, and her grandmother Clarke was
second cousin, once removed, to General Benedict
Arnold. Mrs. Sprague has always been deeply in-
terested in historical and genealogical studies, and
the fate of Theodosia Burr was an engrossing theme.
In her scrap books are collected all available informa-
tion relative to the Edwards, Burr, and Arnold
families, and they were placed at the disposal of the
writer of this volume for use or verification.

Mrs. Sprague did not confine her interest to what
others had done in the way of investigation, but
prosecuted personal inquiries with a remarkable
result. Among her acquaintances was a Mrs. Tice,
also a resident of Dowagiac, which is in Cass County,
Michigan. Mrs. Tice's mother, Mrs. Jay McCom-
ber, lived with her, and from Mrs. McComber, on
January 6, 1903, Mrs. Sprague secured the revela-
tion which follows:

HER CONFESSED EXECUTIONER 409
DOWAGIAC, CASS COUNTY, MICHIGAN.

CHARLES FELTON PIDGIN, Councillor-in-chief,
AARON BURR LEGION,

BOSTON, MASS.
Dear Sir:

On January 6, 1903, I called on Mrs. Jay McCom-
ber, at the residence of her daughter, Mrs. Tice, in
Dowagiac, Cass County, Michigan, and Mrs. Mc-
Comber related to me the following: 'My name,
when a girl, was Kezia Ingling. I was born in
Jersey, New Jersey, in 1821. When a child, my
parents moved to Michigan, taking me with them.
I married Willard Hill in Brownsville, Mich.; later
I married Jay McComber. While living in Browns-
ville, I became well acquainted with Frank Burdick.
In 1848 he lived in his own house near us, and at that
time, for six months, he took his meals at our house.
He was a shoe cobbler. At the end of the six months
he told us if we would move into his house and take
care of him as long as he lived, he would deed me
his house and lot. At that time he claimed to be
70 years of age, was in poor health, and suffered
much from a sore leg, which he said was caused by a
wound he had received in battle on board a pirate
ship, of which he was one of the crew. At the time,
he was taken prisoner with two others, the only sur-
vivors of the crew. We accepted his offer, and he
deeded the place to me, reserving a life lease. He
said he succeeded in escaping from his captors,
taking with him several long knives, which he used
while on the pirate ship. He had these knives with
him when he lived with us, and I was always very

410 THEODOSIA I

much afraid of them and him, when he would get
them out. He lived with us a year and a half in his
own house, and then his leg becoming very bad, the
doctors thought he had better go to the County house
and have it taken off there. He went, but only lived
24 hours after the operation. While living with us,
he would have spells of talking with me about his
life on the pirate vessel. He talked most of a beauti-
ful woman they took off a ship they captured. He
said her name was Theodosia Burr. They killed
all of the crew but the Captain and one other man,
bringing them aboard the pirate ship with the lady.
The pirate Captain wanted to take the lady as his
wife to his den, and gave the choice of that or death.
She at once said she would die, but he insisted on her
taking several hours to consider it. She asked to
be allowed to go to the cabin alone to prepare for
death, and he allowed her to go. At the end of the
time she came out, dressed in white, with a blue
ribbon at her throat. While she was in the cabin,
the men pleaded with their Captain to spare her,
and he told them they might talk with her and see if
they could persuade her to consent to his wishes.
When Burdick approached her, he said but two
words, when she turned and said, 'get thee behind
me, Satan.' The pirate Captain said she must walk
the plank. Then she knelt and prayed for them all,
for her loved ones, and for herself. Then she asked
if any of them had the opportunity, to please send
word to her father and her husband, and tell them
of her fate, so they would not always be looking for
and expecting her. She told them that her only
child was dead. Then she stepped on the plank,

HER CONFESSED EXECUTIONER 411

walked a few steps, and turned toward them, raised
her arms extended, and cried: 'Vengeance is mine
saith the Lord! I will repay!' turned again and,
with face uplifted, walked into the ocean. Burdick
said he had been haunted with the vision ever since;
he would see her in his dreams; that he could never
see a woman in a white dress, that it would not
bring it all back, and as he would talk, the tears
would stream from his eyes, and he said he knew
she would haunt him until his dying day. No act
of his life was he so sorry for. The Captain and the
other man were then made to walk the plank, and
one of them cursed the pirates, and wished them a
bad wish, which soon brought them to ruin, as the
next fight they had, they lost, and all were killed but
him and two others. He escaped, but he thought
that one of the others was afterwards hanged. Frank
Burdick told me this story many times, and I firmly
believe he told the truth. He would sit and talk
and cry for hours. He was always good to me and
my little children, but I wras always afraid of him.
I do not think that he ever talked to any one about
this part of his life, or told any one as much as he
did me, and he only talked to me at times about it,
as he feared. I have told Mrs. Sprague about this
and she has written it out and read it over to me,
and it is every word true." her

MRS. KEZIA x McCoMBER.
mark

I have written this story as near in Mrs.
McComber's own words as I could. I called on
her this day and read it over to her, and she

412 THEODOSIA

signed it as above with her 'mark," as she could

not write.

HARRIETTS CLARKE SPRAGUE.
Subscribed and sworn to before me this day,
February 14, 1903.

FREEMAN J. ATWELL,
Notary Public in and for
Cass County, Michigan.

In a letter accompanying the statement of Mrs.
McComber, Mrs. Sprague wrote: 'Enclosed please
find Mrs. McComber's story as she told it to me. I
could, perhaps, have expressed it better - - more
dramatically - - but I thought it best to keep it, as
far as possible, in her own simple language, which,
considering the fact that she cannot write herself, is,
I think, remarkably good. In relating the circum-
stances concerning Theodosia's ' walking the plank,'
she acted it out, with extended arms, and uplifted
face, as I dare say she had seen Burdick do. The
old lady is in her 83d year, and it is remarkable that
she could, and did, with her lack of education, tell so
straight and coherent a story. I had several inter-
views with her, and although she repeated a good
deal, she did not cross herself."

This is one thread in the skein of mystery. Men
have been executed on the strength of circumstantial
evidence much weaker than this. But there is more
testimony of a cumulative nature to be added.

CHAPTER XVII

HER SILENT WITNESS

IN her book "The Eyrie," Miss Betty F. Pool, of
Elizabeth City, North Carolina, gives a graphic
description of the North Carolina coast near Kitty
Hawk and Nag's Head (96) :

The sand dunes of North Carolina have long been famous as the
scene of marine tragedies. The bleaching ribs of some of the stateliest
craft that ever plowed the deep bear testimony to the ravages of old
ocean. The English merchantman, the Portuguese galleon, the Dutch
brigantine, the Spanish treasure ship, the French corvette, the Nor-
wegian barque, representatives of every maritime nation on the globe,
are scattered over the beach, from Hatteras to Cape Fear, the grisly
skeletons protruding from the sands like antediluvian monsters in
some geological bed.

This narrow strip of sand, winding like a yellow ribbon between
the inland sounds and the sea, presents a curious study to the geologist.
For years it has been gradually sinking, and at the same time becom-
ing narrower until now its average width is not more than a mile;
and the libertine waters of the great sea not seldom rush across the
frail barriers to embrace those of the Albemarle.

The slender divide has not always been able to withstand the
matchless flood, which has, in times of unusual commotion, literally
cut a pathway through the yielding sands. These form inlets, of
which Oregon, Hatteras, and New are the most important.
Isolated from the world on this barren waste of shifting sand, the
"banker" of a hundred years ago was almost a barbarian. His
savage instincts not only made him consider all flotsam and jetsam
his lawful property, but induced him to use every means to lure vessels
ashore for purposes of plunder. And when a wreck occurred, the

413

414 THEODOSIA

wreckers held high carnival. The sparse population turned out
en masse and with demoniac yells murdered without remorse the
hapless victims who escaped the raging surf. Nag's Head, a favorite
summer resort along the coast, was named from a habit the "bankers"
had of hobbling a horse, suspending a lantern from its neck, and
walking it up and down the beach on stormy nights, impressing the
mariner with the belief that a vessel was riding safely at anchor.
Through this device many a good ship has gone down and much
valuable booty secured to the land pirates.

The "bankers" of to-day are different beings from their ancestors
of a century ago. Fellowship with enlightened people has had a
humanizing influence, and they are now good and useful citizens.

The North Carolina coast is provided with three first-class light-
houses, Hatteras, Whale's Head, and Body's Island. Body's Island is
no longer an island. Nag's Head Inlet which formed its north-
ern boundary, having been completely closed up by the encroaching
sands. The dunes, for the most part barren of vegetation, have in
some places a stunted growth of forest trees, and in others large
marshes covered with a rank growth of coarse grass, on which herds
of wild cattle and "banks ponies" graze.

A more hopeful view is taken of the productive
possibilities of the 'sand banks' by a writer on
scientific topics (98).

There is no better type of the average man than the native North
Carolina banker.

The possibilities of these islands are as yet undreamed of by their
inhabitants and utterly unknown to the outsider, who visits only the
most barren of them in the duck-shooting season.

The regaining of the shore strip by reforesting the sands, and the
retention of the dunes that are devastating the meadow lands, would
make of Hatteras Island, at least, a subtropical garden, where southern
fruits and early vegetables once plentiful here might come into the
market. The game still lingering among the wooded dunes would
be greatly multiplied, and the herds of wild ponies now dwindling
away would again increase in numbers. Then conservative lumber-
ing could be added to the industries of the island.

It is also within the range of possibilities that the black beach

Map of North Carolina.

HER SILENT WITNESS 415

sands which are concentrated by wave action at a few points might
be made to yield from their iron ores a return for the labor of gather-
ing them.

Mrs. Pool, the widow of Dr. Pool, lived at Elkhart,
Maryland, at the time Mrs. Drake visited her to
inspect the portrait found at Nag's Head. Her
daughter Anna married a Mr. Overman, and she
now resides at Elizabeth City, N. C. The preced-
ing information was received from Mrs. Drake on
April 22, 1902.

On July 25, 1902, Mrs. Marie Matthew wrote
from Georgetown, S. C., to Mrs. Drake:

It has been my good fortune during the summer to visit Mrs. John
Pool Overman, at Elizabeth City, N. C., and to see the portrait of
Theodosia Burr Alston in her possession. Mrs. Overman showed
me your article published in the Journal descriptive of the circum-
stances attending the portrait, and by her kindly indulgence I had
copies made of the portrait. These photos, I am sorry to say, do but
poor justice to the lovely woman. Yet I am happy to have them.
I am a North Carolinian, but at present reside in this State and in the
neighborhood of the Alstons. Some members of this family are deeply
interested in the history of the portrait, and I write to ask you to give
me a couple of copies of your article, which Mrs. Overman thinks is
by far the most authentic account and which may greatly add to the
value of the photographs. I have often visited Nag's Head, and my
mother knew Mrs. Mann and the "bankers" of that beach.

I shall consider it a great courtesy to receive copies of your article,
and will give one at once to the Alstons who are so anxious to
see it.

The writer of this volume did not enter into cor-
respondence with Mrs. Matthew until late in 1903.
A meeting of the Aaron Burr Legion was held July
14, 1903, at the City of Newark, N. J., the birthplace
of Aaron Burr. A memorial was published in coin-

416 THEODOSIA

memoration of the 147th anniversary of his birthday,
and Mrs. Matthew acknowledged the receipt of a
copy on January 20, 1904, she being then at her home
in Edenton, N. C.

'I am delighted to receive the Burr Memorial.
There is so much to be said for the grand man. I
shall have an interesting letter to write you in a fe\^
days, with accounts of the wreck and the terrible
fate of Theodosia, which I am sure are authentic.
I will give you a synopsis of them, and if you see that
they are valuable to you, I can get the statement
verbatim from the person herself, with notarial cer-
tificate affixed. ... I have been unavoidably de-
layed in sending the photo (Nag's Head picture)
which I mail to-day."

On February 14, 1904, Mrs. Matthew wrote again
from Edenton: "I will go to Elizabeth City as soon
as the weather will permit. It is very cold and the
snow is two inches deep, which is unusual for us. ...
It will give me great pleasure to aid you in this matter,
and with Mrs. Overman's assistance, I am sure you
will receive most valuable information."

Mrs. Matthew wrote from Elizabeth City on
February 22, 1904:

'It affords me great pleasure to forward the en-
closed articles from Mrs. Overman. I wish that
you could meet her. The picture holds a strange
fascination for all who see it. It is on an easel near
my writing-table, and so vivid is the intelligence of
its subject, that it almost speaks from its silent por-
tal. Surely Mr. Hudson could secure a communi-
cation. I would love for it to be in the hands of a
scientist.

HER SILENT WITNESS 417

6 1 return home to-night after a delightful sojourn
of two days. The sun shines once more after a long
siege of hard and trying weather.

"Accept my congratulations on your laudable
efforts, and wishing you all success.

" Yours cordially,

" MARIE A. MATTHEW."

One of the articles referred to in the preceding con-
tained copies of letters sent to Dr. William Gaskins
Pool, the father of Mrs. Overman, relating to the Nag's
Head portrait, which he considered to be that of Mrs.
Theodosia Burr Alston. Dr. Pool received twenty-
one letters, of which copies of three are appended.

"NEW YORK, June 17, 1878.

"My father agrees with me in the belief that it is
Aaron Burr's daughter. She certainly has Aaron's
eyes and the Edwards' nose.

"GEORGE B. EDWARDS.''

/

"CHAPEL HILL, N. C., June 17, 1878.

" Colonel Wheeler is satisfied that yours is the por-
trait of Theodosia. His wife, an artist, pronounces
my photo the same as her cut of Theodosia,"

(The Col. Wlieeler referred to is the historian,
now a resident of Washington City. His w^ife, an
accomplished sculptress, is the daughter of Sully,
the portrait painter.)

Mrs. Mary M. Pringle, in a letter from her home
in Charleston, says:

"CHARLESTON, S. C., July 17, 1878.
" An error has been committed in saying that Theo-
dosia sailed from Charleston. She sailed from

418 THEODOSIA

Georgetown, near which place the Alston family
homestead is situated."

In another letter of date August 6, 1878, the same
Mrs. Pr ingle writes: "I do remember her beautiful
eyes, and the eyes in the picture are really beautiful."

Before visiting Mrs. Overman, Mrs. Matthew
wrote from Edenton on January 25, 1904: 'I hope
you will accept these gleanings which I have made
from the most authentic sources - - from people who
have known these persons and their modes of living
for sixty years - - with the traditions handed down
from their forefathers who made summer pilgrim-
ages to Nag's Head. I have taken great care to
follow explicitly the tales of my mother and aunt who
have known the 'banker' families herein mentioned
since 1846."

The time is long past, the scene is afar, when on that stormy night
in 1812 the bankers gave the pirate's cry and they launched their
boat on the shores of a narrow strip of land situated on the coast of
North Carolina, 36 Lat. 74 Long., about 50 miles from Cape Hatteras,
known as Nag's Head, and went out to a ship with torn sail and
crippled hull buffeting the angry sea.

Forsaken, this vessel had but so short a time, not more than several
hours since, been the scene of one of the foulest deeds recorded in the
pages of piratical history; one of the most inhuman events, greatest
cruelties, the sacrifice of the innocent woman, the defenceless Theo-
dosia, thrice famous in American memoirs, for her own strong per
sonality, intelligent, brilliant, and charming; daughter of Aaron Burr,
the shining light in American politics, soldier, statesman, councilor,
worshiper of wife and child; wife of General Alston, an able and
proud representative of a long and honored family of famous men
and women in the Palmetto State.

Pis not necessary for my pen to re-introduce the pathetic story
of the departure of the vessel Patriot from Georgetown Harbor,
with its lone and beautiful passenger bound for New York, there to

HER SILENT WITNESS 419

welcome to his native soil her illustrious father, and to weep upon
his bosom her mother's tears in anguish over the loss of her child;
to breathe into his ear her undying love for him, and to plead that he
shall now banish from his weary heart the loneliness of an exiled,
persecuted life, and return to her home and be welcomed.

There is no doubt but that Theodosia is the woman whose fate
may now be revealed by a chain of circumstances too true to dispute.
So definitely reasonable are the details, that even the most incredu-
lous may no longer live under the mysterious cloud which has hovered
over her fate for years. Perhaps we are not the happier for knowing
this truth, such horrible truth as it is.

Nag's Head is a noted little spot on the coast of North Carolina, a
mile distant, as the sea-gull flies, from Roanoke Island, the haunt of
the Creatans, the site of Sir Walter Raleigh's Fort, birthplace of the
babe Virginia Dare, the earth whereon Bishop White, in 1584, knelt
to consecrate a prayer of Thanksgiving to the God of the Universe,
and shame it may be added, that the House of Bishops did not send
an Apostle to preach on that spot again until Bishop Watson, of the
Diocese of East Carolina, a visitor at Nag's Head three centuries after,
in 1884, held service there.

There are contradictory accounts relative to the name of this strip
of sand. The early mariners say that the shore from Kitty Hawk,
late the scene of the Wright brother's experiments with the flying
machine, to the Oregon Inlet, presents the appearance of a nag's head,
the ears made prominent by the high sand hills. Possibly this is
true, but more probably may the name be accepted from the fact
that the natives, a crude and lawless set of people, affixed torches
on long poles, mounted their native banker ponies, and walked the
beach stormy nights to allure the ships nearer the shore. This is the
local acceptation; in those days there were no light-houses near, none
save the stars of the universe, the light of the angels' eyes.

The natives of Nag's Head are distinctly strange, something of a
cross between various nationalities; an unprincipled people, piratical,
superstitious, uncleanly and ignorant; the substantiate of life con-
sisting of fish and wild hogs and cattle, with but scant provisions of
bread and vegetables. Grapes are indigenous, and except for a few
fertile spots and the French Ponds, there is little else than sand, no
one yet having found a rock upon which to build a temple. For
generations summer visitors have been most kind to the ban-

420 THEODOSIA

kers, but to be rewarded by pillage of their homes in the winter
months.

Among the bankers there have been for at least a century two
famous families, the Neals and the Manns. There is no interpreta-
tion of these names; they simply took them in late years. The Manns
were the conquering heroes, and the Neals the excavators of the grave-
yard. When a ship was stranded, the parties, natives, brought their
booty ashore and buried it in the sand, and the old men sat to watch
the location of the treasures, and oft in the darkness would follow
the example of Gabriel Grubb and then, with stealthlike tread, the
women would come to dig for the hidden treasures.

Since the war of the Confederacy, Dr. Pool, an eminent physician,
and a resident of Elizabeth City, N. C., paid annual visits to his sum-
mer house on the banks. Mrs. Mann had been an invalid during the
winter months, and after exhausting the virtues of witchcraft, drank
a liberal quantity of stale water out of a gourd which had stood in
the sun seven days, thrown over her left shoulder all the brooms of
seaweed which it had been her fortune to gather on the shore after
the winter storms, shaved the dog's tail to get the hair for blister
wounds, and broke up the supply of flies in the vicinity of the sand
banks to tie on her head to cure the fits, and decapitated all the black
hens unfortunate enough to be black, to see if they would flutter after
the vital organs were extracted, she concluded to send for Dr. Pool.
Now follows the interesting portion of this preamble.

When Dr. Pool, accompanied by his little daughter, entered the
hut, the most veritable hovel as it was, they both were attracted by
the beauty of a weather-beaten portrait, which was suspended from
a nail on the rough upright inside the door. The bright and piercing
eyes of a young woman peered from behind the veil of cobwebs and
around the mounds of fly-specks of many years, and searched for a
glance of recognition from the visitors. The child, now Mrs. Over-
man, the possessor of the portrait, also felt the spell of a spirit speak-
ing through her eyes on the canvas. Dr. Pool questioned Mrs. Mann,
who, like Peter's wife's mother, "lay sick of a fever," and this is the
story, as near as I remember Mrs. Overman's account, that she told.
The English alphabet would refuse to attempt to spell her lingo.

'When the English was fighting us folks over here, I heard 'em
say, and before me and Mann took one another to live with, like
folks do, we all saw a ship out yonder" — she designated the

HER SILENT WITNESS

direction of the Huron stranded on that coast in the summer of 1877
— " and he and the boys went out to her. When they came back they
brought that picture and some trunks along with some other things,
but the ship had been scuttled, and there wasn't much left. Some
of those things in the cupboard came with them." -I cannot recall
satisfactorily what these articles are, I think, though, some china and
a piece or two of silver, but these are the authentic accounts as I had
them from Mrs. Overman, who heard the banker woman. She also
saw the contents of the cupboard. I do not question his faithfulness
to his other patients, but his care for this one was overwhelming.
He was most deeply interested in her recovery as well as the portrait.
He offered to buy it, but no importuning would secure her consent;
she refused most rigidly, although Dr. Pool resorted to hospitality
and asked her over to spend the day with his family. She accepted
and arrived in a tread cart, with her limbs - - the size of a pipe for a
number ten cook range, notwithstanding her recent illness, clad in
knit stockings tied under the knee, — dangling in mid-air. The tread
wagon was filled to a tight squeeze, and when she emerged therefrom,
to the dismay of the household, she stood before them, in stature six
feet tall, and forty-seven bust, attired in a beautiful black satin gown,
made for a gentlewoman, short waist, the skirt hemmed onto a corded
belt, which deficiency of length was supplied with a ravelling from a
tarred rope, low neck, and short sleeves, with under-garment of coarse
homespun from the loom on Roanoke Island, and a cassock of similar
goods to piece out the length. She announced at once that the dress
came off the same wreck with some more clothes. So graciously was
she toasted that day, and so magically did the Pool family mix her
draughts, that before her departure she presented the Doctor with the
coveted portrait.

As it hangs in Mrs. Overman's parlor now, it is lovely, certain
lights upon it reveal an auburn tinge in the hair, and the gown was
evidently white. The eyes are piercing, and the face wonderfully
distinct, even after all these years. It is about twenty-seven inches
by thirty, painted on wood, the picture held in the frame by wrought
hand-made nails; the frame is old and quaint, nothing remarkable,
but the whole corresponds to many portraits exhibited at the
Charleston Exhibition, which were in truth genuine portraits of the
Alston family exhibited by the present owners. I even tried to get
one of these owners, a woman so cultivated and intelligent, to give

422 THEODOSIA

room for this mysterious portrait, but with no avail. I could not realize
such utter want of curiosity. With such testimony in evidence, it is
beyond all doubt, in my mind, that this is the true portrait of the
beautiful daughter of Aaron Burr. Such a fate! Such a life to lose!
Such mystery to cloud her pathetic end. 'Tis true, and a pity it is
'tis true, that even though the spark of light be kindled, that not one
of those patriotic men of South Carolina seem to desire to accept this
solution. I sent photographs to several members of the Alston family,
and was amazed when I received no responsive favor in its behalf.

I know the woods of 'Windsor," one of the Alston homesteads,
which I am glad to say is still owned by a member of the Alston family,
and have several relics from the chase over the fields and through the
woods of that venerable old home. It is one of the most picturesque
in all that vicinity, with its mammoth oaks draped to the ground with
gray moss, a turf of a hundred years over the grove, with the rice
fields so fertile and rich in their bounty far stretching over the river
(Waccamaw) which runs by the foot of the yard. The house is grand,
with tall columns from the ground, a modified structure of Grecian
and local design.

With kindest regards,

Yours cordially,
MARIE ARMISTEAD MOORE MATTHEW.

The sworn statement from Mrs. Overman is next
presented.

ELIZABETH CITY, PASQUOTANK COUNTY, N. C.,

February 22, 1904.
Mr. CHARLES FELTON PIDGIN,
Boston, Mass.

It affords me exceeding great pleasure to address
you this letter, both for myself and in memoriam of
my father, the late Dr. William Gaskins Pool, of
4 Eyrie," our homestead in Pasquotank County, who
went to his rest after a long and useful life, in March,
1887.

In the summer of 1869, my father took his family

Mrs. Theodosia Burr Alston. Krom the Xaii's Head

Portrait.

\\ Af

HER SILENT WITNESS 423

to Nag's Head in search of the sea breezes, so grateful
after the parching suns of Pasquotank. As it ap-
pears on the map, this narrow strip of sand land lies
74° Long. 36° Lat., 50 miles from Cape Hatteras, a
coast treacherous to mariners in consequence of
shoals extending far out to sea. He was called
professionally to the "banker" woman, Mrs. Mann.
To all appearances, as they kept no exact dates, she
was about 70 years old. I accompanied my father,
and entering the rude house, constructed mostly of
timbers from wrecks, and thatched with reeds and
oakum, our attentions were attracted to a beautiful
picture hanging against the rough wall, in dimension
18 x 20 inches, of a beautiful young woman about
twenty-five years of age. The house was not clean,
and the rafters and portrait were festooned with
cobwebs of many seasons. Questioning Mrs. Mann
very closely concerning her strange possession, these
are the facts she told:

Some years before her marriage (which, however,
was not entered into by legal form) to her first hus-
band, one Tillett, a pilot boat came ashore near
Kitty Hawk, two miles up the beach, north ; her sails
were set and rudder fastened. Tillett, with other
bankers, boarded her. Not a soul was on the boat.
They found in the cabin the table set for breakfast;
for this they gave the reason that the berths were not
made up and the cabins were in disorder, yet there
was no trace of blood to indicate a scene of violence.
From this wreck they brought many things, but so
many years had elapsed that she said she knew of
nothing left except what Tillett, her husband, gave
to her. She had an old black trunk opened and

424 THEODOSIA

showed us two soft black silk dresses and a lovely
black lace shawl. The dresses were certainly the
apparel of a gentlewoman, small of physique. The
dresses were very full skirts gathered into a low-cut
bodice, with short sleeves. One of the dresses she
afterwards wore to our house, which she had muti-
lated by inserting a long, black homespun gore in
the back to enable her to meet it in front, the lace
shawl pinned across her shoulders with a long, steel
hair pin. 'Tis needless to add that the hem of her
garment had great antipathy to her clodhopper
shoes. The contents of an old beaufet also exposed
to our view a vase of wax flowers under a glass globe,
and a shell beautifully carved in the shape of a nau-
tilus. These were all the relics in her possession
which had survived the ravages of many years. My
father questioned her closely concerning the details
and dates. She said it was before she was married
to Tillett, when the English were fighting us on the
sea. She knew it was when there was a war, because
the wreckers had booty from war vessels, and she
had heard the summer folks say so. A few old
families from this section went down to Nag's Head
on sailing vessels, since, probably, before the Revo-
lution. It is now quite a resort. My father calcu-
lated the dates to tally. In 1869 she was certainly
70 years old. This would make her fourteen in
1813. She said she was married to Tillett when she
was a young girl - more than likely when she was
sixteen. The bankers, even to-day, are most singu-
lar in their habits, and generally marry, though now
by legal and sometimes by church service, at fifteen
and sixteen. My mother, Mary Savnia Pool, exam-

HER SILENT WITNESS 425

ined the dresses and said they were homespun silk.
Certainly, I have never seen anything like them.
Remarkably well preserved for the long time, but as
the banker woman said, they had stayed in the
trunk and were aired only on state occasions, pos-
sibly half a dozen times since her marriage with
Tillett.

The coloring of the portrait, though very much
worn, is still very good. The hair is tinged with
auburn, eyes piercing black, lips and cheeks pink.
The dress is white. This handiwork of a master is
painted on wood, and the mysterious beauty of the
face seems to speak from a strange, invisible source,
'Will you doubt me more?' It is held in w^hat was
once a plain gilt frame, with but a small beading on
the inner edge, those handsome gilt nails having
but once, when in search of some obscure name
to prove its identity, been taken from the setting.
A tarnished brass ring on the upper edge, by which
it may be suspended, completes this most interesting
relic from the abandoned vessel. With the accom-
panying photographs, the public may draw its con-
clusions as whether or not I have the portrait of the
beautiful, but ill-fated, daughter of the giant states-
man, Aaron Burr. Strong are the conclusions of
great and able minds that such be true, and in
pathetic love for the long perished gentlewoman, the
grief -stricken mother, the faithful wife, and adoring
daughter, I lay bare this authentic account; 'Lest
we forget, Lest we forget." American historians are
powerful workers and they will yet pry open the
sealed vaults wherein there are treasures of data,
and reveal to the world that Aaron Burr was not a

426 THEODOSIA

traitor, a murderer, nor a terror to the morals of
humanity.

Accept my high appreciation of your efforts.
I remain,

Yours cordially,

(Signed) ANNA L. OVERMAN.

NORTH CAROLINA, PASQUOTANK COUNTY.

This day personally appeared before me, the
undersigned, a Notary Public, in and for said County
and State, Mrs. Anna L. Overman, who, being duly
sworn, says, that the statements contained herein are
true and correct to the best of her knowledge and
belief. This February 23d, 1904.

[Seal] (Signed) M. B. CULPEPPER,

Notary Public.

The contents of this chapter form the second
thread in the skein of evidence. The remaining
ones are the portraits of Theodosia, by well-known
artists, the Nag's Head portrait, and portraits of
members of the Burr family, now living, which are
held to have such marked features in common as to
prove the validity of the portrait taken from the
derelict vessel by the North Carolina bankers
nearly a century ago.

CHAPTER XVIII

HER PORTRAITS

THE American Library Association has in con-
templation the publication of an " Index to Por-
traits " * found in books, newspapers, or magazines.
The list which follows was partially compiled from
proof sheets furnished by Mr. W. C. Lane, Librarian
of Harvard University, together with additions based
upon information in the possession of the writer.

The first portrait of Theodosia was undoubtedly
painted by the celebrated Gilbert Stuart. Burr was
not satisfied with it, for he criticised it severely in a
letter to his daughter which is given in a previous
chapter.

A gentleman, a resident of New York City, in a
private letter of date December 27, 1904, wrote:
'Our family has a painting by Stuart of Theodosia
Burr — Mrs. Alston."

On January 10, 1905, the same gentleman wrote,
in reply to a request for a photograph of the portrait:
"The family have replied that they preferred not to
allow picture removed from house, as it is frail, and
they would rather not take chances. If a flash-light
of picture would suit you, you might have it. After
reading your second letter, I have thought that you
might not want this copy, as I have always under-

1 Issued in 1907.

427

428 THEODOSIA

stood that the picture of Theodosia Burr in Parton's
'Life of Burr' was a copy of this picture."

The portrait of Theodosia, of which a steel en-
graving appears in Parton's "Life of Burr," was not
painted by Stuart, but by John Vanderlyn, a protege
of Colonel Burr. The Stuart portrait was painted
when she was a young girl, before her marriage. In
Har^ er's Magazine (1864) three portraits of Theo-
dosia were given, dated, respectively, 1796, 1797,
and 1802. That for 1802 is the Vanderlyn portrait,
painted in 1802. That dated 1796 must be a copy
of the Stuart portrait, as a perusal of a communica-
tion in the New York Times Saturday Review of
July 12, 1902, will undoubtedly convince the reader.

A PORTRAIT OF THEODOSIA BURR

The letters in recent numbers of the New York Times Saturday
Review of Books, in reference to Theodosia Burr's sad fate, recalls an
examination I once made of an old oil-painting supposed to be the
portrait of Aaron Burr's unfortunate daughter. When I saw the por-
trait it was a valued possession of a Miss Edwards, a lineal descendant
of Jonathan Edwards. The painting portrayed a very sweet and
interesting young girl. She was seated, her head bent slightly for-
ward. Her hair hung in curling tresses over her shoulders, and was
cut in a straight line across her forehead. This latter point I noticed
particularly because this was the prevailing fashion of the day for
young girls' and children's hair, and it seemed curious to find the same
style in a portrait which evidently dated from a previous generation.
The face had a gentle, almost pathetic beauty. An air of uncon-
scious grace was noticeable in the pose. Seeing my interest in the
picture, Miss Edwards related its history. As nearly as I can remem-
ber now, after the lapse of a number of years, it was as follows :

Her father, when a young man, while calling upon his relative,
Aaron Burr, was shown a recently completed portrait of his cousin,
Theodosia. Upon his inquiry as to the artist, Burr answered, in an
off-hand manner, "Oh, Stuart." He did not say Gilbert Stuart.

John Yanderlyn, a protege of Col. Aaron Burr, who
became a celebrated painter.

^

HER PORTRAITS 429

however, so there remained some doubt as to whether the portrait
had actually been painted by the famous artist. Many years after-
ward, in what was then the far West, Judge Edwards, in some obscure
spot and in some peculiar manner, happened upon an old oil-painting.
It was so discolored by time and hard usage that it was impossible
to discern the subject. Out of curiosity he had the painting restored.
To his astonishment, it proved to be the very portrait of his cousin,
Theodosia Burr, which he had seen under such different circum-
stances many years before. The mystery of its travels was never
solved. This is the story as I remember it. As I was little more
than a child when it was told me, it is not impossible my memory
may deceive me in some particular, but my recollection of both pic-
ture and story is very vivid.

MARY SNOW DEN EASTLY.
BABYLON, N. Y., June 27, 1902.

As will be seen by an examination of the portrait
dated 1796, published in Harper's Magazine, the
arrangement of the hair is the same as described in
Mrs. Eastly's letter to the Times. The three pic-
tures (1796, 1797, and 1802) also appeared in Charles
Burr Todd's "The Burr Family," published (second
edition) in 1891, facing page 112.

John Vanderlyn painted Theodosia's portrait in
1801 or 1802. In 1801 Colonel Burr wrote to Thomas
Morris: 'Mr. Vanderlyn, the young painter from
Europe, who went about six years ago to Paris, has
recently returned, having improved his time and
talents in a manner that does very great honor to
himself, his friends, and his country. From some
samples which he has left here, he is pronounced to
be the first painter that now is, or ever has been in
America" (99).

The article in the magazine says further: 'It was
at this time that he painted the portraits of Colonel
Burr and his daughter (both profile likenesses) from

430 THEODOSIA

which are copied the engravings prefixed to Davis's
'Life of Burr.' On December 4, 1802, Burr wrote
to his daughter: 'Vanderlyn has finished your pic-
ture in the most beautiful style imaginable.' The
picture dated 1802 in Harper's Magazine is identical
with the steel engraving in Davis's 'Memoirs of
Aaron Burr' and Parton's "Life of Aaron Burr."

An engraving of Theodosia was made by the
French artist Charles B. J. F. de Saint Memin. The
original is in the possession of Hampton L. Carson,
Esq., of Philadelphia. (See frontispiece to this
volume.)

The publications in which copies of portraits or
engravings of Theodosia have appeared, are as
follows :

GILBERT STUART: Harper's Magazine (1864), and
Charles Burr Todd's The Burr Family' (second
edition, 1891).

JOHN VANDERLYN: Davis's 'Memoirs of Aaron
Burr" (1837); Parton's "Life of Burr" (1858 and
1867).

CHARLES B. J. F. de SAINT MEMIN: St. Memin
Collection of Portraits (1862); McClure's Mag-
azine (1902); The Aaron Burr Memorial (1903);
Appleton's Magazine (July, 1906), and the present
volume.

St. Memin made his drawings and engravings in
1796 and 1797, probably from the Stuart portrait,
and the pictures in Harper's Magazine are un-
doubtedly from the Memin engravings, though
poorly done, comparatively, in woodcuts. This
assertion seems to be substantiated by the fact that
in the Stuart portrait, as described by Mrs. Eastly,

Mrs. E. M. Miller.

HER PORTRAITS 431

and in the St. Memin engravings, the hair hangs
down the back and is cut straight across the fore-
head, and covers the ears, while in the VanderJyn
portrait his Parisian teaching is shown by the French
costume of the period, and a simulation of a "liberty
cap' on the back of the head, an addition which
was surely not an American fashion, even for those
who admired the French nation and hated England.
Vanderlyn was an artist, and as the JefTersonian
Republicans (of which Colonel Burr was one) liked
and sympathized with the French, he symbolized
the friendship of the two nations in his portrait of
Theodosia. The Vanderlyn portrait was, without
doubt, the one that accompanied Colonel Burr in
his European travels. Burr in his Journal mentions
the fact that he asked Vanderlyn to "touch up' the
picture while he was in Paris. It had been rolled
and unrolled so often, that the paint was probably
cracked; when in Sweden, hung up in Breda's studio,
Burr wrote in his Journal that the picture seemed
faint in comparison with the Swedish artist's gor-
geous coloring.

The article in Appleton's Magazine for July, 1906,
entitled "The Portraits of St. Memin," was written
by Mr. Charles Kasson Wead. Though finely
illustrated, it contains several errors: Governor
Alston's name is spelled with two "1's," when only
one should have been used. The painter, who
belonged to another branch of the family, spelled
his name with two- -Washington Allston. Mr. Wead
states that Theodosia sailed from Charleston, which
should be Georgetown; he also gives the date of sailing
as December, 1813, instead of December 30, 1812.

432 THEODOSIA

It will be recalled that the maiden name of Colonel
Burr's mother-in-law was Ann Stillwell. The fol-
lowing letter, of date October 10, 1901, from a
member of the Stillwell family, gives some interesting
information as to the present location of some of the
original portraits of Colonel Burr and his daughter
Theodosia.

As I lay aside your book, "Blennerhassett," I determine to thank
you for your defence of Aaron Burr and to express the hope that I
may have the pleasure of meeting you before long. Colonel Burr's
mother-in-law was Ann Stillwell, she who successively married Mr.
Bartow and Mr. De Visme, and who resided with her daughter Mrs.
Prevost, at the time of her marriage to Mr. Burr. In my family,
where his life was well known, he had his detractors yet some cham-
pions. Among the latter I class myself. The pursuit of information
relating to him and his daughter brought me in contact with those
who had known him personally, or those who were otherwise excep-
tionally informed. His last law partner was Colonel Wm. Dusenbury
Craft, who was in his extreme age under my professional care. His
admiration for Burr and his knowledge of him were equally great.
The authoress, Mrs. Ann Stevenson, who befriended Mrs. Webb,
his last friend, and who succeeded to Burr's effects through Mrs.
Webb; the Borowson family, who served Burr in the capacity of
coachman and cook, and who advanced him money when indicted by
the Grand Jury for the killing of Hamilton, and who subsequently
kept his effects; Mrs. Minthome Tompkins, who Burr, in his will,
made guardian of one of the two daughters he named; the family of
his illegitimate son, Aaron Columbus Burr; members of the Edwards
family; all these and others I have met and gleaned from. The result
has been much information and the original portraits of Burr and his
daughter, Theodosia, to the number of five, and photographs of others
to the number of eight, as well as one of Mr. and Mrs. Blennerhassett.
I can conceive it would interest you to see them, and surely it would
please me to show them to one who has so kindly spoken for the originals.

The statement has been made, but without authen-
tication, that Borowson, Colonel Burr's coachman,

Mrs. Catherine Drake Herbert, 4th cousin to Theodosia.

Pi

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XV

HER PORTRAITS 433

took a picture of Theodosia out West with him, and
that this picture was the one referred to by Mrs.
Eastly as being found and restored by Judge Ed-
wards. Colonel Burr did not like the Stuart picture,
but admired that by Vanderlyn, and when he went
South, took the one that he prized the most. In no
way did Colonel Burr refer to the St. Memin en-
graving, which is, apparently, an idealization of the
Stuart portrait.

In reply to an inquiry regarding the portraits of
Theodosia, a member of the Edwards family wrote:

The Theodosia Burr Alston watch is at my home in North Carr-
lina. . . . Some member of the family of Judge Ogden Edwards, soi
of Pierpont Edwards, may be able to give you information in regard
to Mrs. Alston's portraits. His son, Ogden Pierpont Edwards, had
a portrait of Theodosia Burr Alston which I heard was stolen (cut
out of frame) while his family was absent from their home in Elizabeth,
New Jersey.

In the New York Times Saturday Review of July
13, 1901, two correspondents considered the ques-
tion as to whether original portraits of Theodosia
were in existence. One maintained that none were
to be found. This opinion is, however, rendered
untenable from the fact that at least three originals
do exist, and perhaps more. The Stuart portrait,
painted when she was a young girl, is said to have
been in the possession of Judge Edwards of Staten
Island. The St. Memin engravings (two in number)
are owned by the Corcoran Gallery of Art at Wash-
ington, and by Mr. Carson of Philadelphia.

The Vanderlyn picture is probably in the collec-
tion of a member of the Stillwell family living in
New York City.

434 THEODOSIA I

The second correspondent said: 'Of the two
portraits by him (St. Memin) of Miss Burr, the one
engraved in 1796 is from life; the one engraved in
1797 'Dexter' states was engraved after a painting
by Vanderlyn when Miss Burr was about nine or
ten years of age, an original being, in 1862, in the
possession of Judge Edwards of Staten Island."

The preceding statement is not borne out by well-
known facts. Theodosia was but thirteen years of age
in 1796 when St. Memin is said to have engraved
her portrait "from life." Certainly the handsome
young woman portrayed by St. Memin was not a
child of thirteen. The one engraved by St. Memin
in 1797 could not have been from the Vanderlyn pic-
ture, for that was not painted, as Colonel Burr's
letter to his daughter proves, until 1802, wrhen she
was a married woman in her twentieth year. Be-
sides, Miss Burr was ten years old in 1793, and the
earliest date of a pantograph portrait by St. Memin
was 1796.

The many conflicting statements concerning Theo-
dosia's portraits are due, no doubt, to the fact that
the present possessors of them are not particularly
desirous of having them photographed. The pic-
tures are very old and, as one owner says, 'frail."
Another owner is willing to exhibit them under
certain conditions, but does not care to have them
photographed. Under these circumstances, the his-
torian can only state facts as his excuse for not pre-
senting reproductions of portraits known to be in
existence. Enough, however, have been shown for
purposes of comparison with the so-called Nag's
Head portrait.

Mrs. Caroline Edwards Drake Bailey, 4th cousin to

Theodosia.

HER PORTRAITS 435

Too much reliance should not be placed upon
facial resemblances. There are numbers of instances
of "doubles' not members of the same family in
fact, not related at all. There are twins who look
alike, and twins who do not resemble each other in
any way. To Mrs. Stella E. P. Drake's powers of
perception and persistency the comparison between
Theodosia's portraits and the Nag's Head picture is
due, and also, to a certain extent, the resemblances
between Theodosia's portraits, the Nag's Head pic-
ture, and the portraits of some members of the
Edwards family. It becomes necessary, then, to
present these latter in order, that the reader may
make comparisons and draw his own inferences.

The Salt Lake City (Utah) Herald of November
11, 1902, contained the following in relation to one
of the compared likenesses:

The Salt Lake woman whose photograph furnished the missing
link in the chain of proof of the tragic fate of the beautiful Theodosia
Burr is Mrs. E. M. Miller of 1029 First Street, one of the city's promi-
nent club women. Mrs. Miller has been prominent in society circles
of the city for ten years, and her striking resemblance to pictures of
her famous distant cousin has been the source of no little comment
among her friends who knew of family genealogy. Although Mrs.
Miller has for years past been assisting her sister, Mrs. Stella Pier-
pont Drake of Boston, to gather information that might lead to the
solution of the fate of Theodosia Burr, she has said nothing about her
part of the work until yesterday, when, after reading the Herald'?
story of the historic tragedy, she made her identity known and related
to a Herald representative some interesting facts about the mystery
of a century.

Mrs. Miller, in telling her story yesterday, stated that after her
sister, Mrs. Drake, learned of the portrait found on board the stranded
vessel, and coupled with it the nursery story of the dying pirate':
confession, she wrote to her sister here and told her of this portrait.

436 THEODOSIA

"I dressed myself and my hair in the fashion shown in this old
portrait, a description of which my sister sent me," said Mrs. Miller,
"and had my picture taken, showing a profile view of my face. I
sent this picture to my sister, and it was that picture which she com-
pared with the old portrait found on the vessel and proved its authen-
ticity by the striking family resemblance. She wrote to me as soon
as she had compared the pictures and told me the result, but I in-
tended to say nothing about it until I saw the story this morning.
From putting together the facts of the likeness between the pictures,
my undisputed relationship to Theodosia Burr, and the dying pirate's
confession, my sister and I are both convinced that the secret of that
tragedy of nearly a century ago has been cleared up."

Mrs. Miller traces her relationship to the famous American beauty
of a century ago through a straight line of descent from the grand-
father of Theodosia Burr. The family tree begins with Jonathan
Edwards, whose daughter was the mother of Aaron Burr. Timothy
Edwards, the brother of Aaron Burr's mother, was the father of
Edward Edwards, the great-grandfather of Mrs. Miller. His daughter,
Mary Edwards, married James McKinney, and their daughter, Kate
Gray McKinney, married Addison Tuttle Drake, who was Mrs.
Miller's father. This makes Mrs. Miller a cousin of Theodosia Burr,
removed five generations.

Mrs. Stella E. P. Drake and Mrs. Catherine
Drake Herbert, sisters of Mrs. E. M. Miller, bear
the relation of fourth cousin to Theodosia, while
Mrs. Elizabeth Miller McCullough is removed one
more degree.

Those who believe that the Nag's Head picture
is a portrait of Mrs. Theodosia Burr Alston are
satisfied with their discovery, because, in their
opinion, that belief substitutes a certainty for mere
surmise. Coupled with the pirate's confession and
Mrs. Mann's narrative, in their minds the chain of
evidence is complete.

Accepting their contention, what are the strongest
features in the way of argument to support it ?

.,

•«..

Theodosia,, from the Portrait by Vanderlyn.

Mrs. E. M. Miller, of Salt Lake City, 4th cousin to

Theodosia, dressed in imitation of the

Vanderlvn Portrait of Theodosia.

.T
NF

•

•

HER PORTRAITS 437

Mrs. Mann's story being accepted as true, the
facts are established that the vessel did not founder,
and that 'the portrait' was in its cabin, and was
brought ashore, with articles of feminine wearing
apparel, by the 'bankers." Presumably this ap-
parel belonged to the original of the picture.

It the vessel did not founder, but was found de-
serted, the idea of capture by another vessel presents
itself. If captured by a British \var vessel, some
record wrould have been found before this in govern-
ment reports. If so captured, the vessel would not
have been abandoned, but put in charge of a prize
crew, unless it was not navigable. If the passengers
and crew had been captured by a British vessel, they
would have been heard from as prisoners of war.
No such record exists in England, and pirates never
kept them.

If the Patriot foundered at sea, the story is a simple
one, and all surmises and arguments are futile. If
the Patriot was boarded by Tillett and his men, as
the former Mrs. Tillett told Dr. Pool, then the field
is wide open for either conjecture or evidence. No
trace has been found of passengers or crew. It must
be assumed, then, that they died. If at the hands
of pirates (or bankers), perhaps shot and thrown
overboard; or killed by cutlasses; perhaps made to
"walk the plank," a less disfiguring death than to
be shot or sabred. It is for those who do not co-
incide with this conclusion to present their side of
the argument.

There is a weak link in the chain of evidence.
Burdick, who confessed his crime, makes no state-
ment as to what became of the vessel they captured

438 THEODOSIA j

-the Patriot. He does say, however, that the
pirate crew to which he belonged was beaten in its
next fight, and only he and one other escaped. Til-
lett said the vessel was scuttled, but, owing to the
storm, perhaps, the work of destruction was not
completed, and the vessel did not sink. It must
have sunk later, or Tillett and his band would have
run it ashore and still further despoiled it.

But the strongest feature of the argument is still
to be presented. I/ the Nag's Head picture is not a
portrait of Theodosia, whose portrait is it? Plenty
oi time has certainly elapsed in which her relatives
or friends could have established her identity. To
be sure, it was nearly forty-seven years after the loss of
the Patriot before the portrait was discovered, but if
the vessel looted by Tillett and his band was not the
Patriot, what vessel was it, and why was not some
mention made in the papers of the day that another
vessel besides the Patriot was lost at that particular
time and in that locality? There is one great satis-
faction - - one feeling of inexpressible relief - given
by the pirate's confession. Theodosia did not live
to be dishonored, but died as she had lived, a pure
woman - - daughter, wife, and mother.

What more natural than for her to have her por-
trait painted as a surprise for her father? She
knew that the one he had with him on his travels
was cracked by continual rolling, and he had written
in his Journal that it had faded. The artist's name
is not deciphered on the portrait. Some of the
finest poems in the language have been written by
'Anonymous." Why not a portrait from a similar
source? Theodosia knew she could only pay her

[ HER PORTRAITS 439

father a visit, and the new portrait would show her
as she was despite four years of sickness and nervous
anxiety.

Tillett says the pilot boat was scuttled. Who
did it? Either sea pirates or land pirates. Was
any other pilot boat lost at the same time? Has
anyone else claimed the portrait ? For a generation
the papers have been active in spreading the news
concerning this portrait. Has any one come forward
to claim that the portrait was that of any one else
than Theodosia?

c

It is necessary to take the 'pirate story' and the
'picture story" together. Either cannot be accepted
or rejected without reference to the other. The
' picture story ' is much the stronger evidence -
but it must be considered as confirmatory of the
confession. The resemblance between the portrait
and living persons served its purpose as a clue -
but its value ended there. Without Burdick's con-
fession and Mrs. Mann's statement, it would not be
considered as conclusive. But we have the confes-
sion, the statement, and the resemblances - - and
nothing in rebuttal but unsupported negation. Be-
lief is a matter of faith but facts are stubborn
things to be met by facts, and not by simple disbelief.
Why is it that persons who would consign a fellow-
being to the electric-chair on much less conclusive
testimony, refuse to accept the result of these won-
derful coincidences?

CHAPTER XIX

REMEMBRANCES

THE most American of our holy days is "Me-
morial Day," when, both North and South, old
soldiers decorate with flowers the graves of their
deceased comrades in arms. Of late the heroes of
the Navy have not been forgotten, and flowers are
thrown upon the water in memory of those who gave
their lives for what they deemed a sacred cause.
The tributes of honor are swept out to the boundless
ocean, carrying their message of love - - a wordless
requiem for the departed heroes.

Theodosia found a grave in the Atlantic Ocean,
but we cannot, at this time, cast flowers upon the
water to perpetuate the memory of one so sanctified
by suffering. We can, however, bring together the
kind, the loving, and appreciative words that have
been spoken or written about her as a woman -
embracing those great periods in her life - - maiden,
wife, and mother. These flowers of thought, the
incense of near a hundred years, we will place upon
her unknown grave. These remembrances shall be
our tribute to her memory. All that has been said
or printed cannot be given here, but it is thought
the varying shades of sentiments of appreciation are
well represented. A thought may be conveyed by
many forms of word expression, but the thought is
the same, whether it is prose or in poetic form.

440

.,

t&^-^ •
•*v&>'^^^ >^

Theodosia — from Charles Burr Todd's "The Burr Family/
by permission of Harper & Brothers.

Edward Edwards, son of Timothy and Rhocln Ogden
Edwards — first cousin to Col. Aaron Burr.

REMEMBRANCES 441

"The sea's a thief," but when it shall give up its
dead, it will yield no purer soul than that of Theo-
dosia. She was the first educated gentlewoman of
her time, and it is no small glory to have been the
father of such a woman.

Deprived of a mother's love at that age when she
most needed that parent's affection and gentle guid-
ance, she was supremely fortunate in having a father
whose heart beat strongly for his child, and who took
charge of her education with the earnest purpose to
make her a self-reliant, independent woman instead
of a votary of fashion.

French, Greek, Latin, history, and mathematics
were generously mingled with a thorough knowledge
of woman's home duties, and the physical expansion
that comes from out-door sports. At fourteen she
took her mother's place at her father's table and
entertained his guests with her wit and wisdom, and
charmed them with her feminine graces.

Wedded to wealth, good family, and refinement,
she gained new laurels both as wife and mother.
Faithful to all marital ties, she ever retained an
absorbing love for her talented, but politically and
socially, unfortunate father. Ever ready to aid or de-
fend him, that defense was based upon an unquench-
able, filial affection which would have braved obloquy,
prison bars, even death itself, for the one she loved.

No one can read her letters to her father, or that
sad one to her husband when she thought that death
was nigh, without being convinced that her father,
though he may not have been a religious teacher,
had never tried to implant in her breast that saying
of the fool, "There is no God."

442 THEODOSIA

Bowed down by the death of her idolized son, she
turned for consolation to the father who had given
her all the feminine attributes coupled with the
heroism of a Godlike man.

We are sure that she met her fate as her father met
his - - with resignation, and with a spirit of fortitude
that shames the prejudiced, silences the foolish, and
convinces the fair-minded that there can be enshrined
in the human form a nobility of soul that places its
possessor above and beyond the "slings and arrows'
of biased or envious detractors.

The quotation which follows was written in 1843,
sixty years after the birth of Theodosia. Its tenor
is so similar to the writings of Mrs. Inchbald and
Mary Wollstonecraft, which so greatly influenced
Burr in determining the education of his daughter,
that one can hardly imagine so little progress in the
world, as regards woman's education, in nearly two
generations.

You ask what are my opinions about Woman's Rights. I confess
a strong distaste to the subject as it has been generally treated. On
no other theme, probably, has there been uttered so much of false,
mawkish sentiment, shallow philosophy, and sputtering, farthing-
candle wit. . . .

Maria Edgeworth says: "We are disgusted when we see a woman's
mind overwhelmed with a torrent of learning; that the tide of litera-
ture has passed over it, should be betrayed only by its fertility." This
is beautiful and true; but is it not likewise applicable to man ? The
truly great never seek to display themselves. If they carry their heads
high above the crowd, it is only made manifest to others by accidental
revelations of their extended vision. "Human duties and proprieties
do not lie so far apart," said Harriet Martineau; "if they did, there
would be two gospels and two teachers, one for man and another for

woman.'

Whatsoever can be named as loveliest, best, and most graceful in

REMEMBRANCES 443

woman, would likewise be good and graceful in man. You will, per-
haps, remind me of courage. If you use the word in its highest sig-
nification, I answer that woman, above others, has abundant need of
it in her pilgrimage, and the true woman wears it with a quiet grace.

That animal instinct and brute force now govern the world, is
painfully apparent in the condition of women everywhere; from the
Morduan Tartars, whose ceremony of marriage consists of placing
the bride on a mat, and consigning her to the bridegroom, with the
words: "Here, wolf, take thy lamb" -to the German remark, that
"stiff ale, stinging tobacco, and a girl in her smart dress are the best
things." The same thing, softened by the refinements of civilization,
peeps out in Stephen's remark, that "woman never looks so interest-
ing as when leaning on the arm of a soldier"; and in Hazlitt's com-
plaint that "it is not easy to keep up a conversation with women in
company. It is thought a piece of rudeness to differ from them;
it is not quite fair to ask them a reason for what they say."

This sort of politeness to women is what men call gallantry; an
odious word to every sensible woman, because she sees that it is merely
the flimsy veil which foppery throws over sensuality to conceal its
grossness. . . .

'There is perhaps no animal," says Hannah More, "so much in-
debted to subordination for its good behaviour, as woman." . . .

I once heard a very beautiful lecture from R. W. Emerson on Being
and Seeming. In the course of many remarks, as true as they were
graceful, he urged women to be rather than seem. He told them that
all their laboured education of forms, strict observance of genteel
etiquette, tasteful arrangement of the toilette, etc., all this seeming
would not gain hearts like being truly what God made them; that
earnest simplicity, the sincerity of nature, would kindle the eye, light
up the countenance, and give an inexpressible charm to the plainest
features.

The advice was excellent, but the motive by which it was urged
brought a flush of indignation over my face. Men were exhorted to
be rather than to seem, that they might fulfil the sacred mission for
which their souls were embodied; that they might, in God's freedom,
grow up into the full stature of spiritual manhood; but women were
urged to simplicity and truthfulness, that they might become more
pleasing. . . .

"God is thy law, thou mine," said Eve to Adam. May Milton be

444 THEODOSIA

forgiven for sending that thought "out into everlasting time" in such
a jewel setting. What weakness, vanity, frivolity, infirmity of moral
purpose, sinful flexibility of principle -- in a word, what soul-stifling
has been the result of thus putting man in the place of God ! . . .

The nearer society approaches to divine order, the less separation
will there be in the characters, duties, and pursuits of men and women.
Women will not become less gentle and graceful, but men will become
more so. Women will not neglect the care and education of their
children, but men will find themselves ennobled and refined by shar-
ing those duties with them: and will receive, in turn, cooperation and
sympathy in the discharge of various other duties now deemed in-
appropriate to women. The more women become rational com-
panions, partners, in business and in thought, as well as in affection
and amusement, the more highly will men appreciate home — that
blessed word which opens to the human heart the most perfect glimpse
of Heaven, and helps to carry it thither, as on an angel's wings. . . .

The conviction that woman's present position in society is a false
one, and therefore reacts disastrously on the happiness and improve-
ment of man, is pressing by slow degrees on the common conscious-
ness, through all the obstacles of bigotry, sensuality, and selfishness.
As man approaches to the truest life, he will perceive more and more
that there is no separation or discord in their mutual duties. They
will be one; but it will be as affection and thought are one; the treble
and bass of the same harmonious tune. (100)

Poetic tributes to Theodosia, as well as to her
father, have been numerous. The following letter,
and the appended poetic selections, are from the pen
of a professor of philosophy at Princeton Univer-
sity, from which institution of learning Aaron Burr
was graduated in 1772.

DEPARTMENT OF PHILOSOPHY,

PRINCETON UNIVERSITY.

PRINCETON, N. J., Dec. 18, 1906.
Dear Sir:

I sincerely regret that your former letter, for some reason, did not
come to my notice. You are at liberty to use any selections from
the Burr poems that may be suitable to your purpose. I am very

V-

Mrs. Elizabeth Miller McCullough, ">tU cousin to

Theodosia.

REMEMBRANCES 445

much interested in Burr and think you are doing good service in
bringing out the favorable side of his life and character. I expect
some of these times to publish the Burr poems, of which I have
four, in connection with some verse on other subjects. I think you
have a splendid theme in Theodosia and look forward with great
interest to the appearance of your book.

Yours very sincerely,

ALEXANDER T. ORMOND.

THEODOSIA *

She never came to bless that waiting heart,

Who in her childhood years the pride had been

And joy and solace of a father's life,

Since that dark hour when death his home despoiled

Of its dear idol and a void had left

In that fond breast where she had been enshrined.

Of her he mourned the maid the image bore;

So, like a vine the father-love entwined

Her and grew strong. Hers was the heritance

Of mother-beauty and sweet qualities of heart

Illumined with the father's subtile gift

Of intellect and that compelling art

That made him such a prince of men.

And thus

To womanhood she grew a fair young queen,
Who by her graciousness all hearts subdued,
And held them chained by her enthralling charm.
No marvel then, his idol she became
Who'd watched the budding of her loveliness
And found her perfect in both mind and grace;
While him she with a daughter-love repaid,
That recked not of the ill laid to his charge,
But of his high-bred gentleness and the love
He bare for her.

Their lives thus sweetly blent
Until that day a lover won her heart
And bore her to a distant Southern clime,

1 Copyright, 1904, by Alexander T. Ormond. Reprinted by permission.

446 THEODOSIA

Where, as the honored mistress of his home,
Among her social peers she peerless moved,
Blest with the love of husband and that son
Whom God had given her to satisfy
The tender longings of a mother's heart.

So sped the years, nor did the present ties
Supplant the old. The flame of daughter-love
Burned bright as erst and her sweet loyalty
Was a pure fire untouched by evil breath;
Her father's aims, whate'er the world might say,
To her were high and pure.

And so she gave

A true heart's fealty and a woman's craft
To further his designs, dazzled, mayhap,
By the rich stake for which his subtile mind
So deeply played; an empire in the South,
Where she, in regal splendor by his side,
The sceptre of a gracious realm should wield;
But without stain. Her nature stood apart
From evil. In her eyes her fated sire,
Whom men with dark conspiracy had charged
Against the public weal, could do no wrong,
And e'en when fame him such despite had brought,
And smirched his name with infamy so deep,
That all men left him or became his foes,
And his lone head the fateful mark became
Of execration and of rancorous hate,
More ruthless far than e'en the darkest deeds
Of which he stood before the world accused;
With all the strength of self -forgetting love,
To him in his disgrace the daughter clung,
And sought with all her woman's art to shield
Him from the blast and solace to him bring
Amid the worse than wreckage of his hopes.

The years went by, but did not lift the curse
That rested like a blight on all his deeds

REMEMBRANCES 447

And all his dearest efforts brought to naught,

And though his sun of hope and grace had set

And Opportunity had barred its gates,

While struggle as he might, his deeds came back

Like evil birds to plague their author's head.

E'en then pride rose superior to despair

And hope caught resolution from defeat,

And finding all the doors against him closed

The sea he crossed, the wizard power to charm

Of Europe's master genius, in his cause.

But fate, relentless, dogged and spoiled his plans,

And flung him back a broken man whose hopes

Were ashes, but whose heart, still undismayed,

Against the odds of life fought stoutly on

And sought, though poor and in disgrace, to build

Anew the broken fragments of his dream.

Through all this bitter time the daughter's love

Failed not nor wavered, but a steadfast flame

It shone the brightest in that darkest hour

When all men thought him fouled with treason's stain;

So when the mother-love had been bereft

And the bright promise of a budding youth

Brought to untimely end; in its dire loss

The childless heart yearned for the lonely one,

Who, but for her, had none to smooth his way

Or mitigate the harshness of his lot.

Then from a Southern port set sail, she braved

The grisly horrors of an unknown sea,

Stilling the terrors of her woman's heart

With thoughts of that lone watcher in the East;

But the ill-fated bark that bore her forth

Was lost, and whether shipwrecked by the storm

It sank; or, victim of more cruel fate,

Was taken by some murderous pirate craft,

Will ne'er be known, though horror freeze the blood

And pulse stand still before the mystery

That hides, mayhap in mercy, from our eyes

448 THEODOSIA

A vision that no mortal heart could bear.
Whate'er the truth may be, that fated ship
That out to sea such precious treasure bore,
Ne'er to that watcher on the pier brought back
The one dear object of his loveless heart.

EPILOGUE

The winds come hurling up the bay,
On foaming crests of white-capped wave,
The ice enmails the snow-blanched hills,
While round the piers the river craft
Move in the busy ways of trade.
One silent watcher heeds them not,
Nor shrinks from winter's austere blasts,
His eyes intent the distant sail
On far horizon to descry.
Long has he waited and the hope
Has all but died within his breast,
But in despair he clings to hope
And still maintains his lonely watch,
And still his heart leaps in his breast
And o'er the waves a far off sail
Appears as convoy of some ship;
To be crushed back in mute despair,
When for one face he seeks in vain.

She never comes, but there he stands,
The martyr of a hopeless grief,
A victim of fate's deepest scorn;
The most pathetic form the scroll
Of time reveals; that takes our ruth
By storm and drowns in pity's flood
All the harsh judgments that we men
Are prone to in our cooler hours.
For men may say 'twas Nemesis
That wrung this patient watcher's heart;
And in the play of circumstance
That turned his nobleness to whips

Edward Kd wards Drake, 4th cousin to Theodosia.

REMEMBRANCES 449

Of torture, nought but even hand
Of justice may they see:

And yet

There is a doom that goes beyond
The scale of merit and makes men
The sport of fate so hard, that we
Relent and in our gentler moods
Find in their anguish what atones
For much of ill they may have done.
And this lone watcher on the pier,
Whate'er of wrong he may have wrought,
Has suffered so beyond the lot
Of man; we can but let the thought
Of all the anguish he has borne
And the deep pathos of his life
Plead for a judgment on his deeds
That's tempered by the pitying mind. (101)

Theodosia Burr was, as has been said of the daughter of another
eminent statesman, with whom Aaron Burr was closely identified,
"the soul of her father's soul." If we would know the better part
of a man who was one of the most remarkable characters of his age,
we must know Theodosia, through whom, perhaps, his name, which
all the subtlety of his soul was bent on immortalizing, may live to a
better fame in the centuries to come than has attended it through the
years of that in which he lived. Under the inspiration of her pres-
ence, both her father and husband rose to lofty pinnacles in the politi-
cal arena of their country. Her father, on the eve of her marriage,
stood at the very portals of the Chief Magistracy. In less than ten
years of political life he had so progressed that the election of 1800
resulted in a tie vote for the Presidency between Aaron Burr and
Thomas Jefferson. . . . From the moment Theodosia linked her life
with another's, and thus, in a measure, ceased to be a part of his, the
retrogressive period of Aaron Burr's life began. To her husband
she carried that same inspiring influence which she had wielded over
her father. She gave an impetus to his luxuriant and aimless exist-
ence, and at the time of the tragedy which ended her twenty-nine
years of life, he was occupying the gubernatorial chair of his state.
Her life was closely allied not only with the private interests, but with

450 THEODOSIA

the political ambitions of both. Her father rarely dined, either among
friends or strangers, that her health was not drunk. He made her known
to everybody, and during his travels in Europe so interested Jeremy
Bentham and other writers in her, that they sent her sets of their books.

At a time when woman was regarded rather as the companion of
a man's heart than as his intellectual mate, " the soft green of the soul
on which we rest our eyes that are fatigued with beholding more
glaring objects," Theodosia Burr's mental faculties were so developed
and trained as to fit her for the most complete and sympathetic union
with her father, husband, and son. . . . Theodosia's life is an evi-
dence of how exalted was her love, when, with all the world against
him, she was yet proud to be his daughter. . . .

From her close association with her mother under such circum-
stances (during her mother's illness) her receptive mind became im-
bued with the beauties of the Christian philosophy, which her father,
though a grandson of Jonathan Edwards, and son of the Rev. Aaron
Burr, founder and first President of Princeton College, had not included
in the course of studies so exactingly marked out for her. . . .

After her mother's death, Burr, who had a profound admiration
for the language, literature, and people of France, consigned her to a
French governess. She acquired a complete mastery of that tongue,
and the fluency with which she spoke it added much to the grace
with which she presided over her father's home, for Burr frequently
entertained Frenchmen. Louis Philippe, Jerome Bonaparte, Talley-
rand, and Volney were all at various times his guests at Richmond
Hill. . . .

She had much of her mother's self -poise and elegance of manner,
together with her father's dignity and wit. When she reached ma-
turity, though short in stature like her father's family, she carried
herself with a noble dignity, which, with a certain lofty benevolence
of countenance, the refinement of her features, the frank intelligence
of her brow, the healthful bloom of her complexion made her singu-
larly beautiful. . . .

Her life was full of happiness at this time, with Hamilton's wife
and daughters among her friends, her father one of the Presidential
possibilities, and she enjoying much of his society, accompanying him
frequently to Albany on horseback and visiting in the neighborhood
while he transacted his business at the capital. (To the end of
1800.) . . .

REMEMBRANCES 451

"I find that Luther Martin's idolatrous admiration of Mrs. Alston,"
wrote Blennerhassett, "is almost as excessive as my own, but far
more beneficial to his interests and injurious to his judgment, as it is
the medium of his blind attachment to her father, whose secrets and
views, past, present, and to come, he is and wishes to remain ignorant
of. Nor can he see a speck in the character of Alston, for the best of
all reasons with him — namely, that Alston has such a wife." (102)

To THEODOSIA

Beloved child no more to share
An earthly father's tender care,
You fly above with winged feet
And kneel before the judgment seat.

Your earthly record in The Book
An angel scans with pleased look,
And to the Judge's eager sight
Presents a page, unsullied, white.

No time to pass in penitence
Or its required recompense.
Through azure seas with stars bedight
Once more you take your angel flight.

You find a place of perfect bliss,
A world much better, yet like this,
In which those beings who below
No physical delights did know,

Here find those joys so long concealed,
To their ecstatic gaze revealed;
And those who pleasure sought, but failed,
Here find their senses all regaled.

Not long you stay, but onward fly,
Your soul a higher field would try;
And spiritual and mental joy
Your every moment now employ.

452 THEODOSIA

There's nothing lost in life, you find,
The mental work of man confined
In one vast library appears,
The fruitage of six thousand years.

You onward fly, the spark divine
In higher sphere is formed to shine,
'Til thou perfection's Heaven dost see;
Thou'rt safe at last, but lost to me. (103)

"Who is she that winneth the heart of man, that subdueth to love,
and reigneth in his breast?

"Lo, yonder she walketh in maiden sweetness, with innocence in
her mind and modesty on her cheek. Her hand seeketh employment,
her foot delighteth not in gadding abroad. She is clothed with neat-
ness — sne is fed with temperance — humility and meekness are as a
crown, circling her head. On her tongue dwelleth music, the sweet-
ness of honor flows from her lips. Decency is in all her words, in her
answer are mildness and truth. Submission and obedience are the
lessons of her life, and peace and happiness are her reward. Before
her step walketh Prudence, and Virtue attendeth at her right hand.
Her eyes speaketh softness and love, but Discretion with a scepter
setteth on her brow. The tongue of the licentious is dumb in her
presence, the awe of her virtue keepeth him silent. When scandal is
busy, and the fame of her neighbor is tossed from tongue to tongue,
charity and good nature open not her mouth, the finger of silence
resteth on her lips. Her breast is the mansion of goodness, and
therefore she suspecteth no evil in others. Happy the man that shall
make her his wife, happy the child that shall call her mother. She
presideth in the house, and there is peace. She commandeth with
judgment and is obeyed. She ariseth in the morning, she considereth
her affairs and appointeth unto everyone their proper business. The
care of her family is her whole delight; to that alone she applieth her
study, and elegance and frugality are seen in her mansion. The pru-
dence of her management is honor to her husband, and he heareth
her praise with secret delight. She informeth the minds of her chil-
dren with wisdom, she fashioneth their manners after the example of
her own goodness. The word of her mouth is the law of their youth.
The motion of her eye commandeth obedience. She speaketh! and

Mrs. Stella Edwards Pierpont Drake, 4th
cousin to Theodosia.

REMEMBRANCES 453

her servants fly. She pointeth! and the thing is done; for the law of
love is in their hearts, and her kindness addeth wings to their feet.
In prosperity she is not puffed up, in adversity she healeth the wounds
of fortune with patience. The troubles of her husband are alleviated
by her counsels, and sweetened by her endearments; he putteth his
heart in her bosom and receiveth comfort." (104)

Her tender, loyal devotion to her father was most admirable. Not
her love for her husband, not the joys and hopes, cares and sorrows of
maternity could supersede or weaken it. She was always the daughter.
Theodosia's habits of life were, so I have heard my mother say, much
like those of Mrs. Kemble. She was a famous walker and skater,
and accompanied her father on shooting and fishing excursions. As
a horsewoman she was unsurpassed, and, on her visist to her New
England friends, sometimes astonished their quiet neighbors by riding
over the country, taking walls and ditches in flying leaps. Yet she
was, in the best sense of the word, feminine and essentially a lady.

Mrs. Lippincott believed the "pirate's story. ':

The few passengers, he said, and such of the crew as were disin-
clined to enlist under their black banner, they compelled to "walk
the plank." Among the passengers was one lady, who remonstrated
against having her hands bound and being blindfolded, promising to
make no resistance. So they let her have her way, and she stepped
quietly onto the plank and, with eyes wide open, walked off into
the sea. I have always believed that the woman who met her fate
in this grand Roman way was the daughter of Aaron Burr, Theodosia
Alston. (105)

In this brilliant man's entire character there is one redeeming
feature - - he loved his only child, the beautiful and accomplished
Theodosia, with a love and devotion rarely equalled and never ex-
celled. Whatever of heart he possessed, he lavished upon her; his
care, his solicitude, his labor for her was enthusiastic and unceasing,
and she repaid him in Scripture measure - "heaped up, pressed down,
and running over." In the midst of his misfortunes, in the depths
of his ignominy, when the rest of his countrymen were clamoring for
his blood, she writes him daily, and always bidding him to be of good
cheer, while she is hastening to his beloved presence to stand side by
side with him in the prisoner's dock and share his quarters in the

454 THEODOSIA

Richmond penitentiary. . . . Theodosia's illustrious love for her
father overtops them all, and half redeems his fame, for it stands to
reason, and to nature, that there must have been something in a man
who could inspire such deathless affection in a heart so pure as hers.
She died at last in an effort and on a voyage to once more clasp him to
her faithful breast. Her death, awful in its mystery, impossible to
think of even now without a shudder! . . .

If this man's sins be as scarlet — if in the forum of justice or at
the bar of public opinion, any plea can be urged for this illustrious
culprit, what father, thoroughly in love with an only daughter, will
not think more kindly of Aaron Burr, and will not feel like throwing
a flower upon that lonely grave ? (106)

Theodosia was a nearly complete realization of her father's ideal of a
woman. With a great deal of wit, spirit, and talent, and possessing
the elegant vivacity of manner which he so much admired, and a face
strikingly beautiful, and strikingly peculiar, she also inherited all
that a daughter could inherit of her father's courage and fortitude.
In both solid and elegant accomplishments she was far superior to
the ladies of her time. After shining in the circles of New York, she
led the society of South Carolina, until the time of her father's mis-
fortunes, when she shared his ostracism in both places, and was proud
to share it. Her love for her father was more like passion than filial
affection. Her faith in his honor and in his worth was absolute and
entire. Immovable in that faith, she could cheerfully have braved
the scorn, the derision of a world. She would have left all to follow
him. She would have renounced her husband, if her husband had
faltered in his duty to a father-in-law whose fault, whatever it was,
he had shared. No father ever more loved a child, nor more labori-
ously proved his love, than Aaron Burr. No child ever repaid a father's
care and tenderness with a love more constant and devoted than Theo-
dosia. That such a woman could so entirely love and believe in him,
was the fact which first led the writer of these lines to suspect that the
Aaron Burr who actually lived and walked these streets must have
been a very different being indeed from the Aaron Burr of the popular
imagination. (107)

The history of every nation is fraught with romantic incidents.
England has the story of her Alfred; Scotland of her Wallace, her

Mrs. Stella Kihvards Pierpont Drake (in silhouette).

REMEMBRANCES 455

Bruce, her Mary, and her Charles Stuart; Ireland her Fitzgerald;
France her Man with the Iron Mask, and Marie Antoinette; Poland
her Thaddeus, and Russia her Siberian exiles. But we very much
doubt whether any exceed in interest the singularly touching story of
Aaron Burr and his highly accomplished, his beautiful and devoted
daughter, Theodosia. . . . She was the wife of Governor Alston of
South Carolina. She was married young, and while her father was
near the zenith of his fame. She was beautiful and accomplished, a
lady of the finest feelings, an elegant writer, a devoted wife, a fond
mother, and a most dutiful and loving daughter, who clung with re-
doubled affection to the fortunes of her father, as the clouds of ad-
versity gathered around him, and he was deserted by the friends
whom he had formerly cherished. The first duty Burr performed
after his arrival here was to acquaint Mrs. Alston of his return. She
immediately wrote back to him that she was coming to see him, and
would meet him in a few weeks in New York. This letter was couched
in the most affectionate terms, and is another evidence of the purity
and power of woman's love. (108)

At the age of 17 she was married to Joseph Alston, of South Caro-
lina. At this time she was considered as one of the most accomplished
young ladies of the age. She was not only well acquainted with the
classics, but also with the modern languages. This extent of educa-
tion was uncommon in her time; female education has been on the
advance ever since. She was considered as a prodigy among the young
ladies of that age. Not only the mental faculties of the daughter were
carefully cultivated by the father, but a moral and physical discipline
was enforced that nerved her for all the accidents of life. She was
taught corporeal and moral bravery, in the same lesson. Though
small and delicate in her person, she had the spirit of a Roman matron.
In South Carolina she was at the head of fashion, and sustained her-
self with great dignity, without hauteur, caprice, or vanity. She was
considered as a model among her countrywomen in that section of the
country on her first arrival, and the matron fulfilled the promise of
the young lady. (109)

Whatever ambitions Aaron Burr may have had, the love of the
father seems to have been capable of transcending them all in priority
of interest. He had his own ideal of womanhood, and he devoted
himself to informing her mind and training her character in accordance

456 THEODOSIA

with that ideal. It so followed that at an age when other little girls
are concerned almost wholly with the welfare of their dolls, Theodosia
had been taught, in her tenth year, to read Horace and Terence in the
original Latin. She moreover spoke French with remarkable grace,
and was an apt pupil in Greek. Burr constituted himself her chief
tutor. He was careful not to neglect her physical education, and she
grew up with every wholesome feminine charm encouraged. It was
not considered prudent in that age to foster independence of thought
and self-reliance in girls, but Burr was assiduous in instilling into
Theodosia the utmost freedom of intellectual view. (110)

Judging, then, by the result of this first ballot, it is only fair to
assume that under the existing regulations, the name of no woman
will, at any time, be inscribed in the one hundred and fifty panels
provided in the Hall of Fame for great Americans.1 Yet it would be
well if at least a single place were reserved among the Immortals for
the name of one exalted representative of American womanhood.

The Lady with the Lamp shall stand,
In the great history of the land,

The noble type of good,

Heroic Womanhood!

LONGFELLOW. (Ill)

We have one little glimpse of Theodosia in her happy days, in the
recently published life of Edward Livingston, who was Mayor of New
York during part of the Vice-presidency of Aaron Burr. The face-
tious magistrate, we are told, had the pleasure of escorting Theodosia
on a visit to a French frigate lying in the harbor, perhaps one of the
vessels that afterwards fired minute guns on the day of Hamilton's
funeral. On the way, Mr. Livingston, an inveterate punster, ex-
claimed: "Now, Theodosia, you must bring none of your sparks on
board. They have a magazine, and we should all be blown up!"

The curtain drops on the gay party and the bright scene. Theo-
dosia's unclouded days were nearly spent. This was one of the last of
them. (112)

Talleyrand, Volney, Louis Philippe, and others were his guests.
In his family they enjoyed the satisfaction of meeting persons who

LThe names of Maria Mitchell, Emma Willard, and Mary Lyon
were added in 1907.

REMEMBRANCES 457

could converse in their own tongue, thus relieving them from the
awkwardness of broken English, and making them feel more com-
pletely at home. The little Theodosia became the pet of the man
who afterwards, as the minister of Napoleon, swayed the destinies of
the world. Volney forgot to meditate upon the ruins of empires,
when he twined her silken tresses around his finger; arid Louis Philippe
ceased to sigh over the ruined fortunes of his family, or to pant for
the throne he was destined to fill, when she climbed with childi.sh
familiarity upon his knee and her joyous smile fell like a sunbeam
upon him. (113)

Theodosia's presence at Richmond was of more value to her father
than the ablest of his counsel. Everyone appears to have loved, ad-
mired, and sympathized with her. 'You can't think," wrote Mrs.
Blennerhassett, "with what joy and pride I read what Colonel Burr
says of his daughter. I never could love one of my own sex as I do
her." Blennerhassett himself was not less her friend. Luther
Martin, Burr's chief counsel, almost worshiped her. ... It plainly
appears, too, from the letters and journal of Blennerhassett, that
Alston did all in his power to promote the acquittal and aid the fallen
fortunes of Burr, and that he did so, not because he believed in him,
but because he loved his Theodosia. (114)

Theodosia Burr has been a fruitful theme for the author, the artist,
and the poet. Mystery has a great and enduring charm. If she had
fallen overboard and been drowned, her name would have been for-
gotten long ago, or have received only casual mention. It seems
almost unkind, a sort of treachery, to tell the exact truth as regards
her fate and deprive her memory of its constant revival and sym-
pathetic iteration. It is iconoclastic. It destroys an idol of the mind
and leaves - - a blank. Truth is mighty, but it often has a depressing
effect on romance - - but it must prevail, in the end, no matter how
many idols are shattered. (115)

She was carefully educated and became very accomplished, show-
ing particular linguistic talent. After the death of Mrs. Burr she
presided over her father's household until her marriage in 1801 to
Governor Alston, of South Carolina. Her correspondence with her
father after her removal to the South is of great interest and shows
continued devotion to his interests. Her beauty, brilliant personality,

458 THEODOSIA

and relationship to the famous statesman drew public attention to her,
especially during her father's trial, and had the effect of enlisting the
public sympathy on his behalf. (116)

No heartless villain, such as Aaron Burr has been represented,
could have won and retained the love of such a wife and of such a
daughter as Burr had. When all the other witnesses have been heard,
let the two Theodosias be summoned, and especially that daughter
who showed toward him an affectionate veneration unsurpassed by
any recorded in history or romance. Such an advocate as Theodosia
the younger must avail in some degree, even though the culprit were
brought before the bar of Heaven itself. (117)

It was Burr's philosophy to "accept the inevitable without repining."
He resolved in youth always to be cheerful. While he put aside all
external things that suggested Theodosia, and bore with his accus-
tomed grace and cheerfulness this profoundest affliction, the death of
his daughter robbed him of his incentive to restore himself to power
and to regain a fortune. With the life of Theodosia, perished the
father's ambition. (118)

There, too, came Judge Ogden Edwards, then residing at the
Dongan manor-house at West New Brighton, Colonel Richard Connor,
and a few other faithful ones whose names are unrecorded. The
portrait of his lost Theodosia, who stands forth in history as the
noblest of daughters, hung in front of the bed. Through the window
he could obtain glimpses of familiar streets where he had once walked
with his wife, Theodosia Prevost, the lovely niece of the eccentric
Thomas Bartow, of Arnboy. (119)

Whatever opinion may be entertained of the father, the memory
of the daughter must be revered as one of the loveliest and most ex-
cellent of American women, and the revelation of her untimely fate
can only serve to invest that memory with a more tender and melan-
choly interest. (120)

Not the least interesting part of Mr. Charles Burr Todd's little
biographical work called "The True Aaron Burr," is the sketch of
Theodosia Burr Alston, whose tragic fate has made her one of the most
interesting figures in American history. (121)

I read your statement in the Philadelphia Press of July 2d in re-

REMEMBRANCES 459

gard to the fate of Theodosia Burr. Glad always to learn something
that might modify the prevailing opinion as to the terrible end of so
great a woman. The life of father and daughter is the saddest of all
American history. (122)

In Aaron Burr's heart certainly there was space for a very beautiful
devotion to his daughter, Theodosia, to bloom. No more exquisite
family letters may be found anywhere than those which passed between
these two. (123)

Burr's love for his child, Theodosia, and her love for him, is no-
where duplicated in the realm of poetry and romance. (124)

Burr's devotion to his daughter, and that daughter's filial devotion
to him, is one of the most pathetic instances in history. (125)

There will I ask of Christ, the Lord,

This much for him and me;

Only to live as once on earth

With Love, — only to be,

And then awhile, for ever now

Together, I and he. (126)

(C n&

CHAPTER XX

AUTHORITIES AND REFERENCES BIBLIOGRAPHY

PERSONAL AND TOPICAL INDEX

THEODOSIA'S life story ended long ago, and
with the preceding chapter closed our recital
of its joys and sorrows; a joyful birth, a tempestuous
life, a tragic death. Into her life, and that of her
father, came many incidents and almost countless
personages. Many of these are recalled or men-
tioned in the preceding pages; for that reason it has
been deemed a duty due the reader to make the
pages of the volume accessible in many ways. Three
have been selected; the first is:

AUTHORITIES AND REFERENCES. - — Instead of de-
tracting from the symmetry of the book pages by
the use of foot-notes, numbers have been inserted
in the text referring to the notes beginning on page
461. Each note has a back reference to the page
upon wThich its number may be found in the volume.

As the books, magazines, and newspapers, and
names of authors referred to, are not in alphabetical
order under- "Authorities and References," they
have been brought into that form in the second
section of this chapter entitled BIBLIOGRAPHY.

The third section, PERSONAL AND TOPICAL IN-
DEX, needs no explanation. It has been made full,
but, it is hoped, not too much so.

460

AUTHORITIES AND REFERENCES

[The page numbers at the end of each note refer to the volume itself.]

1. Edmund Burke in The Encyclopaedia Britannica, Vol. IV, p. 538. (See
page 1.)

2. Editor's Study in Harper's Monthly Magazine, January, 1906, p. 316.
(See page 5.)

3. The Journal of James Melvin, Private Soldier in Arnold's Expedition
Against Quebec, in the Year 1775. With Notes and an Introduction by Andrew
A. Melvin, Portland, Me. Hubbard W. Byrant, Publisher, 1902. Edition
limited to 250 copies. (See page 5.)

4. A General History of the Burr Family, with a Genealogical Record
from 1193 to 1891, by Charles Burr Todd. Printed for the Author by the
Knickerbocker Press (G. P. Putnam's Sons), New York, 1891. Edition limited
to 500 copies. (See pages 6 and 72.)

5. Notable Americans, A Biographical Dictionary Containing Brief Biogra-
phies of Authors, Administrators, Clergymen, Commanders, Editors, Engineers,
Jurists, Merchants, Officials, Philanthropists, Scientists, Statesmen, and Others
who are Making American History. Editor-in-chief Rossiter Johnson, Ph.D.,
LL.D. Managing Editor John Howard Brown. Published by The Biographi-
cal Society, Boston, Mass., 1904. Vol. X. (See page 14.)

6. Ten Co-educated Girls Two Hundred Years Ago. By Mrs. H. M. Plun-
kett. Scribner's Monthly, April, 1903, pp. 450^i52. (See page 14.)

7. Hartford, Connecticut, Daily Courant, October 6, 1903. (See page 18.)

8. From Mrs. Harriette Clarke Sprague, Dowagiac, Michigan. (See page
19.)

9. The Life and Character of the Reverend Mr. Jonathan Edwards, Part I,
Containing the History of his Life from his Birth to his Settlement in the Work
of the Ministry. Printed by S. Kneeland, Boston, Mass., 1764. (See pages
21 and 33.)

10. Commemorative Discourse in The Memorial Volume of The Edwards
Family Meeting at Stockbridge, Mass., September 6-7, A.D. 1870. Boston
Congregational Publishing Society, 1871. (See pages 23 and 55.)

11. The Dlustrated Story of the Hall of Fame, by Louis Albert Banks,
D.D., Published in New York, 1902, by the Christian Herald. (See pages 24,
63, and 87.)

461

462 THEODOSIA

12. History of the First Presbyterian Church at Newark, New Jersey, by
Dr. Stearns. Also the Tuttle Family, by George Frederick Tuttle. Published
by Tuttle & Company, Official State Printers, Rutland, Vermont. (See page

26.)

13. The Human Legacy of Jonathan Edwards. By Edith A. Winship,
published in The World's Work, October, 1903. (See page 26.)

14. From private letter from Miss T. P. Little, Newton Centre, Mass.
(See page 30.)

15. From private letter from Prof. Alexander Wilder, M.D., of Newark,
N. J. (See page 38.)

16. Article by B. P. Palmer, in The Boston Sunday Globe, October 4, 1903.
(See page 38.)

17. The Life and Character of the Late Reverend, Learned, and Pious
Jonathan Edwards, President of the College of New Jersey, Together with
Extracts from his Private Writings and Diary, and also Eighteen Selected
Sermons. Edinburgh: Printed for and by Alexander Jardine, Back of Gavin
Loch's Land, Forrester's Wynd., 1799. (See pages 39, 45, 67, 78, 79, and 84.)

18. The Boston Traveler, August 9, 1906. (See page 43.)

19. New France and New England, by Prof. John Fiske. (See page 44.)

20. Biographical Sketches of Pre-eminent Americans. Published by E. W.
Walker & Company, Boston, Mass., 101-105 Chauncy Street. (See page 44.)

21. The Illustrated American Biography of the Principal Actors in Ameri-
can History. Vol. II. By A. D. Jones. Published by J. Milton Emerson &
Company, 29 Gold Street, New York, N. Y., 1854. (See page 148.)

22. Jonathan Edwards, by Oliver Wendell Holmes. Published in The
International Review, July, 1880. (See page 56.)

23. From a sermon by Rev. John Coleman Adams, preached at the Church
of the Redeemer, Hartford, Conn., and reported in The Hartford Daily Courant,
October 5, 1903. (See page 57.)

24. Editorial in The Boston Transcript, October 5, 1903. (See page 59.)

25. Rev. Thomas B. Gregory, in The Boston American, January 8, 1906.
(See page 61.)

26. Collections of the New Jersey Historical Society. Vol. IV. Published
by the Society, 1864. (See page 71.)

27. President J. E. Rankin of Howard University, in The Independent,
October 29, 1896. (See page 74.)

28. Historical Discourses Relating to the First Presbyterian Church in
Newark. By Jonathan F. Stearns, D.D., Pastor of the Church. Published in
1853. (See page 76.)

29. The Literary Diary of Ezra Stiles. Vol. II. By Franklin Bowditch
Dexter, M.A. Published in 1901. (See page 78.)

30. American Biographical Dictionary. By William Allen, D.D. Pub-
lished by John P. Jewett & Company, Boston Mass., 1857. (See page 79.)

AUTHORITIES AND REFERENCES 463

31. Historic Houses of New Jersey. By W. Jay Mills. PuNMicd by The
J. B. Lippincott Company, Philadelphia and London, 1902. (See page 80.)

32. The Boston Herald, January, 1904. (See page 88.)

33. Esther Burr's Journal. Second Edition. Jeremiah Eames Hankin,
Author and Editor. Howard University Print, Washington, D. C. For sale
by Woodward & Lothrop (Washington). No name of publisher, no date, and
the work is not copyrighted. (See page 89.)

34. Little Pilgrimages. The Romance of Old New England Churches.
By Mary C. Crawford. Boston, L. C. Page & Company, 1903. (See page 100.)

35. Academic Honors in Princeton University, 1748-1902. Compiled ami
edited by John Rogers Williams. Princeton University, Office of the Secre-
tary, 1902. (See page 106.)

36. Magazine of American History, June, 1892, pp. 419-422. (See page
115.)

37. Magazine of American History, June, 1892, pp. 426^28. (See page
117.)

38. Magazine of American History, January, 1889, p. 5. (See page 118.)

39. Historic Houses of New Jersey. By W. Jay Mills. Published by The
J. B. Lippincott Company, Philadelphia and London, 1902, pp. 151, 152.
(See page 119.)

40. In the Paterson, N. J., Censor, August 13, 1906. (See page 120.)

41. The Century Dictionary and Cyclopaedia. Published by The Century
Company, New York, N. Y. (See page 123.)

42. The Life and Times of Aaron Burr. By James Parton. Published by
Ticknor & Fields, Boston, Mass., 1867. Vol. I, pp. 103, 104. (See page
124.)

43. The Sunday Call, Newark, N. J., January 21, 1906. (See pages 125
and 128.)

44. Memoirs of Aaron Burr. By M. L. Davis. Published by Harper &
Brothers, New York, 1837. Vol. I, p. 183. (See pages 128 and 132.)

45. Mr. Orrin Vanderhoven, Court Librarian, Passaic County, Paterson,
N. J. (See page 131.)

46. Life of Aaron Burr. By Henry Childs Merwin. Published by Small,
Maynard & Company, Boston, Mass., 1899. (See page 133.)

47. The New York Sun, September 26, 1902. (See page 134.)

48. By Edmund Clarence Stedman. Published in Harper's Magazine,
October, 1887. (See page 138.)

49. The Life and Times of Aaron Burr. By James Parton. Published
by Ticknor & Fields, Boston, Mass., 1867. Vol. I, p. 125. (See page
139.)

50. Memoirs of Aaron Burr. By M. L. Davis. Published by Harper &
Brothers, New York, N. Y., 1837. Vol. I, pp. 169, 170. (See page 140.)

51. A General History of the Burr Family, with a Genealogical Record from

464 THEODOSIA

1193 to 1891. By Charles Burr Todd. Printed for the Author by The Knicker-
bocker Press (G. P. Putnam's Sons), New York, N. Y., 1891, p. 74. First
edition published in 1878, p. 88. (See page 140.)

52. New York Times, November 28, 1903. (See page 141.)

53. Manual of the Reformed Church in America. Board of Publication,
34 Vesey Street, New York, N. Y., 1879. (See page 142.)

54. From Rev. Edward Tanjore Corwin, New Brunswick, N. J., December
8, 1903. (See page 142.)

55. From William Nelson, Corresponding Secretary, New Jersey His-
torical Society, Paterson, N. J. (See page 146.)

56. The Beautiful Daughter of Aaron Burr. By William Perrine, Ladies
Home Journal, February, 1901. (See page 147.)

57. The Chronicle, Chicago, 111., August 2, 1903. (See page 148.)

58. Gleanings from an Old Scrap Book, Containing Sketches of Yankee
Life and Character. By Grace Greenwood (Mrs. S. J. Lippincott). (See
page 177.)

59. Boston Globe, August 8, 1902. (See page 179.)

60. Memoirs of Aaron Burr. By M. L. Davis. Published by Harper &
Brothers, New York, N. Y., 1837. Vol. I, pp. 341 and 366. (See page 181.)

61. Chesterfield's Letters. Second Series. By the Earl of Carnarvon.
Published by G. P. Putnam's Sons, New York, N. Y. (No date.) (See page
183.)

62. Mrs. Virginia Tatnall Peacock, in Famous American Belles of the
Nineteenth Century. Published by The J. B. Lippincott Company, Phila-
delphia, Perm., 1901. (See page 184.)

63. A Vindication of the Rights of Woman. By Mary Wollstonecraft.
Published in London. (See page 184.)

64. William Godwin: His Friends and Contemporaries. By C. Kegan
Paul. In two volumes. Published by Roberts Brothers, Boston, 1876. Vol.
I, p. 201. (See page 185.)

65. Theodosia Burr, in Famous Americans of Recent Times. By James
Parton. Published by Ticknor & Fields, Boston, Mass., 1867. (See page 186.)

66. The Tuttle Family. By George Frederick Tuttle. Published in 1883.
(See page 188.)

67. William Perrine, in The Ladies Home Journal, February, 1901. (See
page 188.)

68. Manual of the Corporation of the City of New York, 1856. By D. T.
Valentine, pp. 475, 476. (See page 207.)

69. In Old New York. By Thomas A. Janvier. Published by Harper &
Brothers, New York, N. Y., 1894. (See page 208.)

70. Last days of Knickerbocker Life in New York. By Abram C. Dayton.
Published by G. P. Putnam's Sons, New York and London, 1897. (See page
215.)

AUTHORITIES AND REFERENCES 465

71. The American Metropolis. By Frank Noss, LL.D. Vol. Ill, p. 301.
(See page 216.)

72. Courtiers and Favorites of Royalty -- Talleyrand. Vol. II, p. 301.
Paris Societe des Bibliophiles. (See page 219.)

73. Magazine of American History, June, 1879. (See page 220.)

74. The Romance of Aaron Burr. By Alfred Henry Lewis, in Pearson's
Magazine, November, 1906, pp. 482, 483. (See pages 220 and 221.)

75. American Portrait Gallery. Vol. I. (See page 225.)

76. Where Irving Worked and Wandered. By Ella Stryker Mapes, in
The Critic, October, 1902. (See page 226.)

77. Women's Progress in the Twentieth Century. By Walter Thornton, in
Boston Sunday Post, July 22, 1906. (See page 227.)

78. The Alstons and the Allstons of North and South Carolina. By Joseph
A. Groves, M.D., Selma, Ala., 1901. p. 80. (See page 231.)

79. Famous Americans of Recent Times. By James Parton. Published
by Ticknor & Fields, Boston, 1867. p. 411. (See page 236.)

80. Famous American Belles of the Nineteenth Century. By Virginia
Tatnall Peacock. Published by The J. B. Lippincott Company, Philadelphia,
Penn., 1901, pp. 30, 31. (See page 236.)

81. Famous Americans of Recent Times. By James Parton. Published
by Ticknor & Fields, Boston, Mass., 1867, pp. 414, 415. (See page 270.)

82. The Life and Times of Aaron Burr. By James Parton. Published
by Ticknor & Fields, Boston, Mass., 1867. Vol. II, p. 158. (See page 279.)

83. Memoirs of Aaron Burr. By M. L. Davis. Published by Harper &
Brothers, New York, N. Y., 1838. Vol. II, p. 412. (See page 280.)

84. Blennerhassett, a Romance. Chapter XXV, p. 299. (See page 301.)

85. The Life of Aaron Burr. By Samuel L. Knapp. Published by Wiley
& Long, 169 Broadway, New York, N. Y., 1835, pp. 198, 199. (See page

357.)

86. The Mobile Register, May 23, 1833. From The Alabama Journal.
(Date unknown.) (See page 358.)

87. The Life and Times of Aaron Burr. By James Parton. Published
by Ticknor & Fields, Boston, Mass., 1867. Vol. II, p. 248. (See page 360.)

88. Fernando de Lemos, a novel. By Charles Gayarre. Published by
G. W. Carleton & Company, New York, N. Y., 1872. (See page 360.)

89. The Tuttle Family. By George Frederick Tuttle. Published in 1883,
p. 401. (See page 366.)

90. The New York Press, December 25, 1892. (See page 367.)

91. Bettie Freshwater Pool, in Worthington's Magazine, March, 1894.

(See page 369.)

92. Theodosia Burr. The Wrecker's Story. By John Williamson Palmer.
Published in The Century Magazine, October, 1895. Vol. II, pp. 860-862.
(See page 371.)

466 THEODOSIA

93. The New York Times Saturday Review of Books, July 13, 1901. (See

page 379.)

94. Arthur C. Mack, in New York Times Saturday Review. (See page

382.)

95. In Detroit Free Press, March 22, 1903. (See page 403.)

96. The Eyrie and Other Southern Stories. By Bettie Freshwater Pool.
Broadway Publishing Company, New York, N. Y., pp. 24, 25. (See pages
403 and 413.)

97. From Stories of the Pirates. By John L. White, in Boston Sunday
Post Magazine, August 19, 1906. (See page 408.)

98. Where the Wind Does the Work, in The National Geographic Maga-
zine, June, 1906, p. 317. (See page 414.)

99. The Atlantic Monthly, February, 1867, pp. 228, 229. (See page 429.)

100. Letters from New York. By L. Maria Child. Published by C. S.
Francis & Company, New York, N. Y., and Joseph H. Francis, Boston, Mass.,
1844, pp. 245-252. (See page 444.)

101. The Watcher on the Pier. By Prof. Alexander T. Ormond, in The
Newark Sunday News, January 31, 1904. (See page 449.)

102. Famous American Belles of the Nineteenth Century. By Virginia
Tatnall Peacock. Published by The J. B. Lippincott Company, Philadelphia,
1901. (See page 451.)

103. By the author of Blennerhassett. (See page 452.)

104. From the Alstons and the Allstons of North and South Carolina. By
J. A. Groves. The Sayings of a Chinese Philosopher. (See page 453.)

105. From Gleanings from an Old Scrap Book, Containing Sketches of
Yankee Life and Character. By Grace Greenwood (Mrs. Sarah J. Lippin-
cott). (See page 453.)

106. From an address on Aaron Burr. By Hon. Champ Clark of Missouri.
Found in Modern Eloquence. Vol. VII, p. 230. (See page 454.)

107. The Life and Times of Aaron Burr. By James Parton. Published
by Ticknor & Fields, Boston, Mass., 1867. Vol. II, pp. 249, 250. (See page
454.)

108. Stryker's American Register. By James Stryker. Published in
1849. (See page 455.)

109. Life of Aaron Burr. By Samuel L. Knapp. Published by Wiley &
Long, New York, N. Y., 1835, p. 195. (See page 455.)

110. The Boston Evening Globe, August 8, 1902. (See page 456.)

111. The Story of the Hall of Fame. By Louis Albert Banks, D.D. Pub-
lished by The Christian Herald, New York, N. Y., 1902, p. 409. (See page
456.)

112. The Life and Times of Aaron Burr. By James Parton. Published
by Ticknor & Fields, Boston, Mass., 1867. Vol. II, p. 425. (See page
456.)

AUTHORITIES AND REFERENCES 467

113. The Rivals. By Hon. Jere Clemens. Published by The J. B. Lip-
pincott Company, Philadelphia, Penn., 1862, p. 230. (See page 457.)

114. Famous Americans of Recent Times. By James Parton. Published
by Ticknor & Fields, Boston, Mass., 1867, p. 417. (See page 457.)

115. From a private letter to the author of Blennerhassett. (See page 457.)

116. Encyclopaedia Americana. Vol. III. (See page 458.)

117. Aaron Burr. By Henry Childs Merwin. Published by Small, May-
nard & Company, Boston, Mass., 1899, p. 147. (See page 458.)

118. Five American Politicians. By Samuel P. Orth. Published by The
Burrows Brothers Company, Cleveland, O., 1906, p. 67. (See page 458.)

119. A True Picture of the Last Days of Aaron Burr. From Through the
Gates of Old Romance. By W. Jay Mills. Published by the J. B. Lippincott
Company, Philadelphia, Penn., 1903. (See page 458.)

120. The True Aaron Burr. By Charles Burr Todd. Published by A. S.
Barnes & Company, New York, N. Y., 1902, p. 74. (See page 458.)

121. Milwaukee (Wis.) Sentinel, June 1, 1902. (See page 458.)

122. From a private letter to Mrs. Stella Edwards Pierpont Drake. (See
page 459.)

123. Boston Beacon, July 16, 1904. (See page 459.)

124. From a lecture by Hon. George E. Clark, of South Bend, Indiana,
delivered at Chautauqua, New York, August 19, 1904. (See page 459.)

125. Pittsburg (Penn.) Post, May 4, 1902. (See page 459.)

126. The Blessed Damozel. By Dante Gabriel Rossetti. Published by
Johnson, Hickborn & Company, Ltd., London. (See page 459.)

BIBLIOGRAPHY

[The figures in parentheses refer to the notes under "Authorities and References."
The pages given are those of the volume itself.]

BOOKS

Aaron Burr, Address on, in "Modern Eloquence" (106), page 454.

Aaron Burr, Memoirs of (44), pages 128 and 132; (50), page 140; (60), page

181; (83), page 280.
Aaron Burr, The Life and Times of (42), page 124; (49), page 139; (82), page

279; (87), page 360; (107), page 454; (112), page 456.
Aaron Burr, The Life of (85), page 357; (109), page 455.
Aaron Burr, Life of (46), page 133; (117), page 458.
Academic Honors in Princeton University, 1748-1902 (35), page 106.
American Biographical Dictionary (30), page 79.
American Biography, Appleton's Encyclopaedia of, page 79.
American Portrait Gallery (75), page 225.
American Register, Stryker's (108), page 455.
A True Picture of the Last Days of Aaron Burr, from Through the Gates of

Old Romance (119), page 458.
Berkshire County (Mass.), History of, page 29.
Biographical Sketches of Pre-eminent. Americans (20), page 44.
Blennerhassett, a Romance (84), page 301.

Burr Family, A General History of (4), pages 6 and 72; (57), page 140.
Chesterfield's Letters (61), page 183.

Collections of the New Jersey Historical Society (26), page 71.
County Families of the United Kingdom, page 9.
Courtiers and Favorites of Royalty, Talleyrand. Paris Societe des Bibliophiles

(72), page 219.

Edwards Family, Memorial Volume of (10), pages 23 and 55.
Edwards, Rev. Jonathan, Life and Character of (17), pages 39, 45, 67, 78, 79,

and 84.

Edwards, Rev. Mr. Jonathan, Life and Character of (9), pages 21 and 33.
Encyclopaedia Americana, Vol. Ill (116), page 458.
Encyclopaedia Britannica, The (1), page 1.
Esther Burr's Journal (33), page 89.

468

BIBLIOGRAPHY 46!)

Ezra Stiles, The Literary Diary of (29), page 78.

Famous American Belles of the Nineteenth Century (62), page 184; (80),

page 236; (102), page 451.
Famous Americans of Recent Times (65), page 186; (79), page 236; (81),

page 270; (114), page 457.
Fernando de Lemos (88), page 360.

First Presbyterian Church at Newark, N. J., History of (12), page 26.
Five American Politicians (118), page 458.

Gleanings from an Old Scrap Book (58), page 177; (105), page 453.
Godwin, William. His Friends and Contemporaries (64), page 185.
Hall of Fame, Illustrated Story of the (11), pages 24, 63, and 87; (111), page 45f».
Historical Discourses Relating to the First Presbyterian Church at Newark,

N. J. (28), page 76.

Historic Houses of New Jersey (31), page 80; (39), page 119.
Illustrated American Biography of the Principal Actors in American History

(21), page 48.

In Old New York (69), page 208.
Journal of James Melvin, The (3), page 5.
Last Days of Knickerbocker Life in New York (70), page 215.
Letters from New York (100), page 444.

Manual of the Corporation of the City of New York (68), page 207.
Manual of the Reformed Church in America (53), page 142.
New France and New England (19), page 44.
Notable Americans, A Biographical Dictionary (5), page 14.
Rivals, The (113), page 457.

Romance of Old New England Churches (34), page 100.
The Alstons and the Allstons of North and South Carolina (78), page 231;

(104), page 453.

The American Metropolis (71), page 216.
The Blessed Damozel (126), page 459.
The Century Dictionary and Cyclopaedia (41), page 123.
The Eyrie and Other Southern Stories (96), pages 403 and 413.
The True Aaron Burr (120), page 458.

Turtle Family, The (12), page 26; (66), page 188; (89), page 366.
Vindication of the Rights of Woman (63), page 184.

MAGAZINES

Atlantic Monthly, The (99), page 429.

Edwards, Jonathan, in The International Review (22), page 56.

Harper's Magazine, page 73.

Harper's Magazine (48), page 138.

Harper's Monthly Magazine (2), page 5.

470 THEODOSIA

Jonathan Edwards, The Human Legacy of, in The World's Work (13), page 26.

Library Messenger, Norton's, page 213.

Magazine of American History (36), page 115.

Magazine of American History (37), page 117.

Magazine of American History (38), page 118.

Magazine of American History (73), page 220.

Stories of the Pirates, in Boston Sunday Post Magazine (97), page 408.

Ten Co-educated Girls Two Hundred Years Ago, in Scribner's Monthly (6),

page 14.

The Romance of Aaron Burr, in Pearson's Magazine (74), pages 220 and 221.
Where Irving Worked and Wandered, in The Critic (76), page 226.
Where the Wind Does the Work, in The National Geographic Magazine (98),

page 414.
Wrecker's Story, The, in The Century Magazine (92), page 371.

NEWSPAPERS

Alabama Journal, The (86), page 358.

American, Boston (25), page 61.

Augusta (Me.) Journal, page 392.

Bangor (Me.) Commercial, page 392.

Beautiful Daughter of Aaron Burr, in Ladies Home Journal (56), page 147.

Boston Beacon (123), page 459.

Boston Globe (59), page 179; (110), page 456.

Boston Sunday Journal, page 385.

Boston Sunday Post, page 392.

Censor, Paterson, N. J. (40), page 120.

Charleston, S. C., Courier, page 348.

Chicago Chronicle, page 405.

Chicago Tribune, page 406.

Chronicle, Chicago (57), page 148.

Daily Courant, Hartford, Conn. (7), page 18.

Daily Courant, Hartford, Conn. (23), page 57.

Denver (Colo.) Post, page 400.

Detroit Free Press, The (95), page 403.

Elizabeth City (N. C.) Economist, page 384.

El Paso (Texas) Herald, page 392.

Fall River (Mass.) Herald, page 392.

Freeland (Pa.) Tribune, page 392.

Gardner (Me.) Independence, page 392.

Globe, The Boston Sunday (16), page 38

Herald, Boston (32), page 88.

Houston (Texas) Post, page 392.

BIBLIOGRAPHY 471

Knoxville (Tenn.) Tribune, page 392.

Lebanon (Pa.) Times, page 392.

Lowell (Mass.) News, page 402.

Meteor, The (supplement to Charleston, S. C., News and Courier), page 228.

Milwaukee Sentinel (121), page 458.

Mobile Register, The (36), page 358.

New York Commercial Advertiser, page 235.

New York Herald, page 404.

New York Journal, page 392.

New York Journal-American, page 392.

New York Life, page 61.

New York Mail and Express, page 369.

New York Outlook, page 60.

New York Press, The (90), page 367.

New York Sun (47), page 134.

New York Sun, page 392.

New York Times Saturday Review of Books (93), page 379.

New York Times Saturday Review, page 393.

New York Times (52), page 141.

Paterson (N. J.) Call, page 47.

Philadelphia Press, page 392.

Pittsburg Post (125), page 459.

Portsmouth (N. H.) Times, page 392.

Rankin, President J. E., in The Independent (27), page 74.

Salt Lake City (Utah) Herald, page 392.

Salt Lake City (Utah) Herald, page 435.

Seattle (Wash.) Post-Intelligencer, page 405.

Southbridge (Mass.) Press, page 392.

Springfield (Mass.) Republican, page 382.

States, The New Orleans, page 122.

Sunday Call, Newark, N. J. (43), pages 125 and 128.

The Watcher on the Pier, in The Newark Sunday News (101), page 449.

Tilton (N. H.) Enterprise, page 392.

Transcript, Boston (24), page 59.

Traveler, The Boston (18), page 43.

United States Gazette, page 348.

Unknown newspaper, page 81.

Vanderhoven, Orrin, from lecture by (45), page 131.

Washington (D. C.) Post, page 365.

Wilkesbarre (Pa.) News, page 392.

Women's Progress in the Twentieth Century, in Boston Sunday Post

page 227.
Zion's Herald (Boston, Mass.), page 60.

472 THEODOSIA

LETTERS

Blennerhassett, private letter to the author of (115), page 457.

Corwin, Rev. Edward Tanjore, of New Brunswick, N. J. (54), page 142.

Drake, Mrs. Stella Edwards Pierpont, private letter to (122), page 459.

Little, Miss T. P., of Newton Centre, Mass. (14), page 30.

Nelson, William, Corresponding Secretary New Jersey Historical Society (55),

page 146.

Sprague, Mrs. Harriette Clarke (8), page 19.
Wilder, Prof. Alexander, M.D., of Newark, N. J. (15), page 38.

AUTHORS

Adams, Rev. John Coleman, Sermon in Hartford Daily Courant (23), page 57.
Allen, William, D.D., American Biographical Dictionary (30), page 79.
Banks, Louis Albert, D.D., The Illustrated Story of the Hall of Fame (11),

pages 24, 63, and 87; (111), page 456.
Blennerhassett, by the author of (103), page 452.
Carnarvon, Earl of, Chesterfield's Letters (61), page 183.
Child, L. Maria, Letters from New York (100), page 444.
Clark, Hon. Champ, Address on Aaron Burr, in Modern Eloquence (106)

page 454.

Clark, Hon. George E., from lecture by (124), page 459.
Clemens, Hon. Jere, The Rivals (113), page 457.

Crawford, Mary C., Romance of Old New England Churches (34), page 100.
Davis, Matthew L., Memoirs of Aaron Burr (44), pages 128 and 132; (50),

page 140; (60), page 181; (83), page 280.
Dayton, Abram C., Last Days of Knickerbocker Life in New York (70), page

215.

Dexter, Franklin Bowditch, M. A., Diary of Ezra Stiles (29), page 78.
Fiske, Prof. John, New France and New England (19), page 44.
Gayarre, Charles, Fernando de Lemos (88), page 360.
Grace Greenwood (Mrs. Sarah J. Lippincott), Gleanings from an Old Scrap

Book (58), page 177; (105), page 453.

Gregory, Rev. Thomas B., in Boston American (25), page 61.
Groves, Joseph H., M. D., The Alstons and the Allstons of North and South

Carolina (78), page 231; (104), page 453.
Holmes, Oliver WTendell, Jonathan Edwards (22), page 56.
Janvier, Thomas A., In Old New York (69), page 208.
Johnson, Rossiter, Ph.D., LL.D., Editor-in-chief of Notable Americans (5),

page 14.

Jones, A. D., Illustrated American Biography of the Principal Actors in Ameri-
can History (21), page 48.

BIBLIOGRAPHY 473

Knapp, Samuel L., The Life of Aaron Burr (85), page 357; (109), page 455.
Lewis, Alfred Henry, The Romance of Aaron Burr, in Pearson's Magazine

(74), pages 220 and 221.

Mack, Arthur C., in New York Times Saturday Review (94), page 382.
Mapes, Ella Stryker, Where Irving Worked and Wandered, in The Critic (76),

page 226.

Melvin, James, Journal of (3), page 5.

Merwin, Henry Childs, Life of Aaron Burr (46), page 133; (117), page 458.
Mills, W. Jay, A True Picture of the Last Days of Aaron Burr (1 19), pag<- 45S.
Mills, W. Jay, Historical Houses of New Jersey (31), Page 80; (39), page 1 ID.
Noss, Frank, LL.D., The American Metropolis (71), page 216.
Ormond, Prof. Alexander T., The Watcher on the Pier, in The Newark Sunday

News (101), page 449.

Orth, Samuel P., Five American Politicians (118), page 458.
Palmer, B. P., in Boston Sunday Globe (16), page 38.
Palmer, John Williamson, The Wrecker's Story, in The Century Magazine

(92), page 371.
Parton, James, Famous Americans of Recent Times (65), page 186; (79),

page 236; (81), page 270; (114), page 457.
Parton, James, The Life and Times of Aaron Burr (42), page 124; (49), page

139; (82), page 279; (87), page 360; (107), page 454; (112), page 456.
Paul, C. Kegan, William Godwin. His Friends and Contemporaries (64),

page 185.
Peacock, Mrs. Virginia Tatnall, Famous American Belles of the Ninteenth

Century (62), page 184; (80), page 230; (102), page 451.
Perrine, William, in Ladies Home Journal (56), page 147; (67), page 188.
Plunkett, Mrs. H. M., Ten Co-educated Girls Two Hundred Years Ago (6),

page 14.
Pool, Bettie Freshwater, in Worthington's Magazine (91), page 369. The

Eyrie and Other Southern Stories (96), pages 403 and 413.
Rankin, Jeremiah Eames, Esther Burr's Journal (33), page 89.
Rossetti, Dante Gabriel, The Blessed Damozel (126), page 459.
Stearns, Dr. Jonathan F., History of the First Presbyterian Church at Newark,

N. J. (12), page 26.

Stearns, Jonathan F. D. D., Historical Discourses, etc. (28), page 76.
Stedman, Edmund Clarence, in Harper's Magazine (48), page 138.
Thornton, Walter, Women's Progress in the Twentieth Century, in Boston

Sunday Post (77), page 227.

Todd, Charles Burr, The True Aaron Burr (120), page 458.
Todd, Charles Burr, History of the Burr Family (4), pages 6 and 72; (51),

page 140.
Tuttle, George Frederick, The Tuttle Family (12), page 26; (66), page 188;

(89), page 366.

474 THEODOSIA

Valentine, D. T., Manual of the Corporation of the City of New York (68),

page 207.
White, John L., Stories of the Pirates, in Boston Sunday Post Magazine (97),

page 408.

Winship, Edith A., The Human Legacy of Jonathan Edwards (13), page 26.
Wollstonecraft, Mary, A Vindication of the Rights of Woman (63), page 184.

PERSONAL AND TOPICAL INDEX

[The figures indicate pages in the volume itself.]

Aaron Burr in Literature, 104.

Aaron Burr, the Man, 104.

Abraham, Plains of, 115.

A Century Later, 104.

Achaud, Mrs., 284.

Adams, Abigail (wife of President
John Adams), 211, 215.

Adams, John, 111, 128, 208, 209,
215, 216.

Adams, Rev. John Coleman (of Hart-
ford, Conn.), 55.

Alberg. Duke of, 321.

Alden, Major R., 180, 181.

Allen, Prof., 24.

Allston, Washington (the painter),
230, 376, 431.

Alston, Aaron Burr, 112, 113, 264,
265, 302, 304, 305, 307, 308,
309.

Alston, Col. (and Governor) Joseph
(of Georgetown, S. C.), 112, 205,
213, 227, 228, 229, 230, 231, 232,
235, 241, 254, 271, 273, 346, 347,
355, 356.

Alston, Gov. Joseph (general orders
issued by), 348-355.

Alston, Mr. Joseph, 229, 230, 245.

Alston, J. Motte, 397, 399, 400.

Alston, Col. Thomas Pinckney, 400.

Alston, Col. William, 228, 230, 247,
400.

Andre, Major John, 132, 133.

Aristotle, 59, 232.

Armstrong, Gen. John, 300, 301, 310,
334.

Arnold, Gen. Benedict, 107.

Arnold, Mrs. Benedict (Peggy Ship-
pen), 132, 133.

Association, The American Library,
427.

Astor, John Jacob, 213.

Atherton, Mrs. Gertrude, 219.

Autocrat of the Breakfast Table, 56.

Babe, the pirate, 359, 375.

Banks, Rev. Louis Albert, D.D., 24,
25, 63, 87, 88.

Bartow House, The, 119, 120.

Bartow, Theodosius, 119, 120, 121.

Bartow, Thomas (brother of Theo-
dosius), 120, 458.

Bassano, Duke of, 300.

Beecher, Rev. Henry Ward, 58, 60.

Belcher, Gov., 98.

Bell, W. Dwight (of Philadelphia,
Pa.), 54.

Bellamy, Rev. Joseph, D.D., 71,
106.

Bentham, Jeremy, 189, 284, 287, 288,
301, 311.

Berkshire County, Mass., History of,
29.

Berry, Moses, 57, 58.

Bestaver's Killetje, 210.

Blauvelt, Isaac, 141.

Blennerhassett, 381, 382

475

476

INDEX

Blennerhassetts and the Southwestern

Conspiracy, The, 104.
Blennerhassetts, The (Harman and

Margaret), 112, 432.
Bogert, Rev. Mr. David S., 140, 142,

143.

Bonaparte, Jerome, 216, 217, 262.
Borowson (Mr. and Mrs.), 432.
Borrowson's tavern, 209.
Brainerd, David (evidently an error

in the name), 81.

Brainerd, Rev. Mr. David, 49, 91, 92.
Brandt, Joseph (Mohawk Chief), 216,

239, 242.
Brastow, Prof. Lewis O. (of Yale

University), 55.

Breda (Swedish painter), 314, 431.
Brewster, Elder William, 12.
Brewton, Miles, 228.
Brown, Catharine (Theodosia's

cousin), 274.

Browne, Mrs. Walter, 176.
Buell, Mr., 89.
Burdick, Benjamin F., 406, 407, 409,

410, 411, 437, 438.
Burke, Edmund, 1.
Burr (the name), 9.
Burr, Aaron Columbus, 432.
Burr, Benjamin, 6, 7.
Burr Coat-of-arms, 10.
Burr, Col. Aaron, 7, 53, 54, 62, 72,

80, 88, 98, 104, 117, 118. (Chapter

VII.)

Burr, Daniel, 71.
Burr, David J. (of New Haven,

Conn.), 72.

Burr-Hamilton Duel, The, 104.
Burr, Henry, 7.

Burr, Henry T. (of Boston, Mass.), 10.
Burr, Jehu, 6, 7, 71.
Burr, John Gotleib 320.
Burr, Mrs. Esther Edwards, 53, 69, 72,
74, 80, 101, 102, 105. (Chapter VI.)

Burr, Mrs. Theodosia Prevost, 8, 110,

111, 187. (Chapter VIII.)
Burr, Rev. Aaron, 11, 53, 67, 86, 93,

95, 96, 98, 99, 100, 105, 106, 114,

(Chapter V.)
Burr, Rev. Jonathan, 7.
Burr, Sarah (afterwards Mrs. Tappan

Reeve), 72, 98, 146, 161, 169, 170,

183.
Burr on trial at Richmond, Va.,

278.
Byron, Lord, 219, 222.

Caledonia, Old, 2.

Calendar, a Burrian, 105.

Calendar, a Jeffersonian, 105.

Calhoun, John C., 73.

Calvinism, 59.

Canning, E. W. B. (of Stockbridge,
Mass.), 50.

Carleton, Sir Guy, 211, 216.

Carson, Hampton L. (of Philadelphia,
Pa.), 430, 433.

Chalmers, Dr. 64.

Charming, William Ellery, 60.

Chase, Judge Samuel, 112.

Cheetham, James, 177.

Chesterfield, Lord, 225.

Church, John B., 111.

Clark, Prof. Frank D. (of New York
City), 52.

Clarke, Col. John, 408.

Clarke, Ednah Proctor, 20.

Clarke, Mrs. Mary B. (of Newbern,
N. C.), 52.

Cleosophic Society (of Princeton
College), 106.

Clinton, Gov. George, 220, 265.

Connor, Col. Richard, 458.

Conspiracy, the Southwestern, 113.

Coon, Sailing-master, 340.

Corcoran Gallery of Art (at Wash-
ington, D. C.), 433.

INDEX

477

Corwin, Mr. Edward Tanjore, 141.
Council of Safety (at Trenton, N. J.),

129.

Cowboys and Skinners, 109.
Craft, Col. William Dusenbury,

432.

Crawford, Miss, 100.
Crosby, Charles Henry Burr(?), 400,

401, 402.
Curtis, William, Lord Mayor of

London (epigram on), 286.
Curtis, William Eleroy, 105.

Dalrymple, Sir Hugh (epigram on),
285.

Dante, 59.

Darwin, Charles, 248.

D'Auvergne, Madame (Leonora San-
say), 313.

Davis, Matthew L., 115, 150, 177,
181, 315.

Denmark, Col. Burr's acquaintances
in, 332.

Denon, M., 300

Depeyster, Miss, 152.

Detheridge, Mrs. (of Washington,
Va.), 10.

De Visme, Miss (half -sister to Mrs.
Theodosia Burr), 139.

De Visme, Mrs. Ann, 116, 119, 124,
125. (See Stillwell.)

De Visme, Peter, 171.

De Visme, Philip, 119.

Dickinson, Rev. Jonathan, 72, 75,
93.

Dole, George T. (of Stockbridge,
Mass.), 54.

Dominique You's Story (from "Fer-
nando de Lemos"), 361-365.

Dongan Manor-house at West New
Brighton, Staten Island, N. Y.,
458.

Dorchester, Lord, 216.

Drake, Addison Tuttle, 436.

Drake, Mrs. Stella Edwards Pier-
pont, 365, 378, 379, 385, 415, 435,
436.

Dudley, Gov. Thomas (of Massa-
chusetts), 338.

Duncan, Rabbi, 59.

Dunlap, William, 120.

Dunning, Rev. Dr. E. A. (editor of
The Congregationalist), 55.

Dwight, Dr. Sereno E., 25, 51.

Dwight, Prof. Theodore W., LL.D.
(of New York City), 54.

Eastly, Mary Snowden (of Babylon,

N. Y.), 429, 433.
Edgeworth, Maria, 442.
Edwards Coat-of-arms, The, 30.
Edwards, Edward, 436.
Edwards, George B. (of New York

City), 417.
Edwards, Henry (of Boston, Mass.),

54.
Edwards, Hon. Jonathan (of New

Haven, Conn.), 52, 54.
Edwards, Hon. Joseph W. (of Mar-

quette, Mich.), 50, 54.
Edwards, Jerusha, 89, 90, 91, 92.
Edwards, Jonathan (of Forest City,

Neb.), 54.

Edwards, Jonathan, Jr., 93.
Edwards, Judge Ogden, 433, 458.
Edwards, Lucy, 67.
Edwards, Mary, 89, 436.
Edwards, Mary Ann, 282, 318.
Edwards, Mary (cousin of Aaron

Burr), 366.

Edwards, Mr. G. H., 282.
Edwards, Mrs. Sarah Pierpont, 52,

53, 63, 89, 90, 91, 93, 97, 99.

(Chapter IV.)

Edwards, Ogden Pierpont, 433.
Edwards, Pierpont, 433.

478

INDEX

Edwards, Rev. Jonathan, 11, 52, 53,
54, 55, 63, 69, 82, 86, 90, 93, 94, 95,
96, 97, 99, 105, 106, 114, 436,
(Chapter III.)

Edwards, Rev. Timothy, 11, 55, 57,
94. (Chapter II.)

Edwards, Richard, 13.

Edwards, Sarah, 89, 90.

Edwardses, The. 158.

Edwards, Timothy, 436.

Edwards, William, 13.

Edwards, William W. (of Brooklyn,
N. Y.), 51.

Eggleston, Rev. Mr., 54.

Emerson, Rev. Joseph (of East
Pepperell, Mass.), 100, 101, 102.

Emerson, Ralph Waldo, 443.

Emilius, Rousseau's, 166, 183.

England, Col. Burr's relatives, cor-
respondents, personal friends, and
acquaintances in, 330, 331, 334.

Englishman's God, The, 25.

Esther Burr's Journal, 73, 88, 100.

Eustis, 287.

Everett, Edward, 223.

Eyrie, The (residence of Dr. William
G. Pool), 413.

Fernando de Lemos, 360, 406.

Field, David Dudley, LL.D., 54.

Field, Rev. H. M. (of Stockbridge,
Mass.), 54.

Finley, Samuel, D.D. (President of
Princeton College), 83.

Fort Edward, 115.

Fort William Henry, 115.

France, Col. Burr's correspondents,
personal friends, and acquaint-
ances in, 333, 334.

Franklin, Benjamin, 56, 76.

Franklin fireplace, 152.

Gale, Rev. Dr. (of Lee, Mass.), 54.

Gallatin, Albert, 295, 296.

Gampy (Grandfather, and also a
nickname for Burr's grandson,
Aaron Burr Alston; written also
Gampillo, and Gampillus), 260, 261.

Gardiner, Prof. H. M. (of Smith
College, Northampton, Mass.), 55.

Garrison, Theodosia, 61.

Gates, Gen. Horatio, 117, 210.

Gayarre, Charles (author), 360, 406.

Genlis (de) Madame, 164.

Geoffrey Crayon (one of Washington
Irving's pseudonyms), 224.

Germany, Col. Burr's relatives, cor-
respondents, personal friends, and
acquaintances in, 332, 333.

Godwin, William, 184, 328, 329.

Goodrich, Hon. J. Z. (of Boston,
Mass.), 51.

Gordon, Dr. George A. (of the Old
South Church, Boston, Mass.),
59.

Gospel of Work, 205.

Gould, Judge James, 73.

Grant, Samuel, Jr. 19.

Great Chain, The (at West Point,
N. Y.), 135.

Green, Dr. John, 1st (of Green Hill,
Worcester, Mass.), 338.

Green, Hon. Andrew H., 338.

Green, Jacob, 77.

Green, Timothy, 338.

Greenwich, Village of, 209, 216.

Greenwood, Grace (Mrs. Sarah J.
Lippincott), 178.

Greenwood, Judge John, 148.

Griswold, Edward, 177.

Hagerman, Andrew Hopper (of Rah-

way, N. J.), 135.
Hale, Col. Nathan, 229.
Halfway Covenant, The, 13.
Hall of Fame, 60.

INDEX

479

Hamilton, Gen. Alexander, 8, 112,

114, 149, 216, 265, 268, 269, 432.
Hamilton, William, 8.
Hancock, Gov. John, 107, 303.
Havermeyer, Theodore A. (of New

York City), 134.
Hawkins, Col. Armand (of New

Orleans, La.), 361.
Hawley. Joseph, 2d, 48.
Hawley, Joseph, 3d, 48.
Hawley, Miss (of Bridgeport, Conn.),

10.
Henshaw, Mrs. Sarah Edwards Tyler

(of Ottawa, 111.), 50, 52.
Herbert, Mrs. Catherine Drake, 436.
Hermitage, The, 125, 126, 127 136.
Hickey, Thomas, 211, 216.
Hoffman, Joseph Ogden, 225.
Holladay, Alexander Quarles, LL.D.,

379.
Hollis, Mr. (English patron of the

Indian Schools at Stockbridge), 94.
Hollister, Gideon H., 73.
Hooker, E. W., 51.
Hooker, Rev. Elias Cornelius (of

Stockbridge, Mass.), 50.
Hooker, Rev. Thomas, 63.
Hopkins, Rev. Mark, D.D., LL.D.

(of Williams College, Mass.), 51.
Hopgood, Hannah, 329.
Hopkins, Rev. Samuel (Old Sincerity)

89, 90, 91.
Hopper, Andrew (of Hopperstown,

N. J.), 134.
Hosack, Dr., 287.
Howe, Gen. Sir William, 108.
Hughes, Col. H. H., 129.

Inchbald, Mrs. Elizabeth S., 176, 442.
Independence, Declaration of, 2.
Indian Mission at Stockbridge, The,

28.
Irving, Peter, 223, 225.

Irving, Washington, 223, 225, 262,
263, 270.

Jackson, Gen. Andrew, 343, 344, 345,

346.

Jans, Anneke, 213.
Jaquith, Rev. C. A., 11, 55.
Jay, John, 213.
Jefferson, Thomas, 111, 128, 195,

209, 213, 216, 237, 241, 276.
Jeffrey, Lord, 224.
J. Motte Alston's Story of the loss

of the Patriot, 393.
Johnson, Sir William, 116.
Journal, Esther Burr's, 73.
Jumel, Madame, 114, 123.
Jumel Mansion, The, 118, 211.

Kicking Bird, 86.

Kirkland, Dr. (President of Harvard

College), 302.

Knapp, Col. Samuel, 115, 150, 357.
Knight, L. L., 403.
Knox, Gen. Henry, 107.
Kuypers, Gerardus A., 141, 144.

Lafitte (the pirate), 404, 405, 407.
L'Age, Nathalie de, 181, 199, 213,

222, 252, 253, 261, 264, 274.
Lamballe, the Princess, 199.
Lane, W. C. (Librarian of Harvard

University), 427.
Lee, Gen. Charles, 173.
Legion, The Aaron Burr, 415.
Leo XIII, 6.
Leshlie, Mr. (one of Theodosia's

tutors), 194.
Letters, Lord Chesterfield's, 176, 183,

189, 197, 203.
Lewis, Hon. Morgan, 112.
Life (New York), 61.
Lippincott, Mrs. Sarah J. (Grace

Greenwood), 408, 453.

480

INDEX

Lispenard's Meadows, 210.

Litchfield Hill, 73.

Little, Miss T. P., 30.

Livingston, Edward (Mayor of New

York), 216, 456.
Livingston, Robert R., 181.
Livingston, William, 76.
Louis Philippe, 216.
Louise, the Princess, 113.

Macniel, Capt., 181.

Mably, the Abbe, 155.

Madison, James, Jr., 106, 216.

Madison, Mrs. Dolly, 296.

Malaria, treatment of, 307.

Malcolm, Col., 108.

Manhattan Banking Company, The,

111.
Mann, Mrs. ("banker's wife," of

Nag's Head, N. C.), 370, 377, 415.
Marshall, Chief Justice John, 113.
Martineau, Harriet, 442.
Mason, Jonathan (of Massachusetts),

106.

Mather, Rev. Cotton, 12.
Matthew, Mrs. Marie Armistead

Moore (of Georgetown, S. C.),

415, 416, 417, 418^22.
Matthews, David (Mayor of New

York in 1776), 211.
Maunsell, Gen. John, 116, 117, 118,

157.

McComber, Mrs. Jay, 408, 409, 411.
McCosh, Dr. James (of the College

of New Jersey, Princeton), 51.
McCullough, Mrs. Elizabeth Miller,

436.

McDougall, Gen. Alexander, 109.
McKinney, James, 436.
McKinney, Mrs. Kate Gray, 436.
McRae, Samuel, 301, 310, 321, 334.
Medcef-Eden Case, The, 114.
Memorial Day, 440.

Memorial, The Aaron Burr, 415, 416.

Memorial, The Edwards, 55.

Mersereau's Ferry (Port Richmond,
Staten Island, N. Y.), 114.

Mersereau, Mr., 157.

Merwin, Henry Childs, 115.

Mill, John Stuart, 186.

Miller, Mrs. E. M. (of Salt Lake City,
Utah), 435, 436.

Mills, W. Jay, 80.

Milton, John, 60.

Minetta Water, 209, 210.

Miss Prissy (one of Theodosia's nick-
names), 193.

Mitford, Mary Russell, 224.

M'Kenzie, Alexander, 313.

Moncrieffe, Miss Margaret, 108.

Monmouth, Battle of, 108.

Montcalm, Marquis Louis Joseph de,
115.

Montgomery, Gen. Richard, 107.

Monroe, James (President), 136, 171,
172, 173, 343, 344.

Montagu, Lady Mary Wortley, 263.

Moore, Bishop Benjamin, 116.

More, Hannah, 443.

Morris, Col. Robert, 133.

Morris, Col. Roger, 118.

Mortier, Abraham, 207, 210.

Motte, Mrs. Rebecca, 228, 400.

Mrs. Drake's Story of the "Pirate"
and the "Portrait," 385-392.

Mutiny, at the Gulf, 108.

Nassau Hall, 74, 87.

Neal, John, 224.

New Haven, defense of, 109.

New Jersey College (Princeton), 72.

New Orleans, Battle of, 407.

Nisbett, Lady, 252, 253.

Northampton, Mass., 30.

" Oaks," The, 248, 317.

INDEX

481

Oglethorpe, Gov., 3.

Oldstyle, Jonathan (one of Wash-
ington Irving's pseudonyms), 225.

Ormond, Prof. Alexander T. (of
Princeton University), 444, 449.

Outlook, New York, 60.

Overman, Mrs. Anna (of Elizabeth
City, N. C.), 415, 416, 417, 422-126.

Overstocks Captain, 113, 340.

Paine, Thomas, 177.

Palmer, John Williamson, 375.

Paramus, Battle of, 108.

Paramus Church, The, 137, 138.

Park, Prof. Edwards A. (of Andover

Seminary, Mass.), 51, 55.
Parker, Sir Peter, 397.
Parsonage, The (at Newark, resi-
dence of Rev. Aaron Burr and the

birthplace of Col. Aaron Burr), 80.
Parton, James, 115, 150, 186, 187,

188, 197, 214, 217, 221, 222, 236,

270, 360.
Paterson, Judge William, 109, 136,

140, 161.

Patriot, the pilot boat, 113.
Patriot, The (description of), 337.
Patterson, Miss Elizabeth, 217, 218,

262.
Peacock, Mrs. Virginia Tatnall, 187,

215, 217, 236, 237.
Peggy (one of Col. Burr's colored

servants), 274.
Pendleton, Nathaniel, 265.
Penitentiary at Richmond, Va., 277.
Penn, William, 7.
Pepperell, Sir William, 101.
Pierpont, John (of Rox., Mass.), 63.
Pierpont, Rev. James (of New Haven,

Conn.), 63.
Pierpont, Sir John (of Nottingham,

England), 63.
Pinckney, Gen. Thomas, 394, 400.

Piracy, the literature of, 407, 408.

Plunkett, Mrs. H. M., 14.

Poe, Edgar Allan, 177.

Poisson d'Avril (April Fool's Day in

Paris), 298.
Pool, Miss Bettie F. (of Elizabeth

City, N. C.), 413, 414.
Pool, Dr. William Gaskins, 370,

417.

Pool, Mrs. Dr. William G., 415.
Presidential Tie in 1800, The, 103.
Prevost, Augustine James Frederick,

150, 157, 159, 180, 182, 274, 2HI,

288, 291.
Prevost, Gen. Augustine, 11.3, 1 J .',

123, 180.
Prevost, Hon. John Bartow, 128,

150, 154, 155, 156, 159, 180, 274.
Prevost, James Mark (Jacques Marc),

119, 122, 123, 124, 133.
Prevost, Lieut.-general (Sir George),

120.

Prevost, Major, 160.
Prime, S. Irenseus, D.D. (editor

New York Observer), 51.
Prince, Miss Sally (of Boston, Mass.),

94, 98.

Princeton College, 114.
Pringle, Mrs. Mary M. (of Charleston,

S. C.), 417, 418.
Pringle, Mrs. W. B. (of Charleston,

S. C.), 394.
Private Journal of Aaron Burr, The,

280, 281, 329, 330.
Puritan Decline, The (1660-1735), 12.
Putnam, Gen. Israel, 107.
Pynchon, William, 6.

Quebec, Expedition to, 107.

Queen's Square Place (London resi-
dence of Jeremy Bentham), 312,
313.

Quincy, Dorothy, 303.

482

INDEX

Quincy, Josiah (of Massachusetts),
228, 229.

Ramapo Valley, The, 122.

Rankin, Jeremiah Eames (President

Howard University), 73, 88, 100.
Rate-Book, Rev. Timothy Edwards's,

19.

Rawdon, Lord, 229.
Reeve, Aaron Burr, 72.
Reeve, Judge Tappan, 72, 73, 77,

107, 161, 169.
Reeve, Tapping (or Tappan) Burr,

72.

" Reforming Synod," The (1679), 12.
Revolution, Heroes of the, 104.
Reynolds, Hon. Milton William, 85.
Rhineberg, Dr. (in "Fernando de

Lemos"), 361.
Richmond Hill, 199, 216, 238, 239,

240, 249, 263. (Chapter X.)
Richmond Hill Theatre, The, 214,

215.

Roosevelt, James (of New York), 106.
Roosevelt, President, 63, 241.
Rose, Rev. Dr. Henry T. (of North-
ampton, Mass.), 55.
Rosencrants, Dr. Elijah (written also

Rosencrantz, Rosencrans, and

Rosegrant), 122, 142, 143.
Rousseau, Jean Jacques, 184.
Rovigo, Duke of, 300.
Ruggles, Brigadier-General Timothy,

338.
Rush, Dr. Benjamin, 162, 167, 168,

169, 174, 194.
Russell, Jonathan, 300, 301, 310, 321,

334.
Rutledge, Edward, 230.

Saint Memin Charles B. J. F. de,

182, 430, 431.
Sally, ? 156, 274.

Sands, Mercy, 116.

Sargeant, Mr. John, Indian mission-
ary), 51.

Savonarola 60.

Schieffelin, N. Maunsell, 116.

Scott, Sir Walter, 313.

Seward, William H., 177.

Sheldon, Annabella (Reeve), 72.

Shelley, Percy Bysshe, 184.

Shetland, Mrs. Julia Eliza, 10.

Simpson, Prof. Samuel, 13.

Sir Charles Grandison, 92.

Skinners, Cowboys and, 109.

Slavery, Abolition of (in the State of
New York), 110, 111.

Smith, Claudius (British spy), 136.

Smith, Hon. William, 77.

Smith, Rev. Caleb (of Newark
Mountain), 76, 77.

Smith, Thomas (of Haverstraw, N.
Y.), 110.

Social Life during the Revolution
and the Early Days of the Repub-
lic, 48, 104.

Spencer, Herbert, 186.

Sprague, Mrs. Harriette Clarke (of
Dowagiac, Mich.), 408, 412.

Sprague, Rev. William B. (of Flush-
ing, N. Y.), 54.

Stearns, Rev. Jonathan F., D.D., 76.

Steed Bonnett (the pirate), 396, 408.

Sterling, Lord (Gen. William Alex-
ander), 172.

Steuben, Baron, 209.

Stevenson, Mrs. Ann (the author), 432.

Stillwell, Ann, 432.

Stillwell, Elizabeth, 115, 116.

Stillwell, Richard (of Shrewsbury,
N. J.), 115.

Stirrnp Cup, The, 121, 122.

Stoddard, Anthony, 14.

Stoddard, Esther, 11, 14.

Stoddard, Rebekah, 48.

INDEX

483

Stoddard, Rev. Solomon, 11, 13, 14,
48.

Stone, Col. William Leete (of
the Revolutionary Army), 216, 220,
359, 375.

Stone, Rev. Dr. George M. (of Hart-
ford, Conn.), 55.

Stone, William L. (of Mount Vernon,
N. Y.), 209, 216, 358, 397, 398, 399.

Stoughton, Judge John A. (of Hart-
ford, Conn.), 55.

Stuart, Gilbert (the painter), 247,
427, 428, 430.

Suffern's Cove, 135, 136.

Suffren, J. Bogert, 122.

Sully (the portrait painter), 417.

Sumter, Thomas, 181.

Sumter, Gen., 181, 199, 213.

Sunnyside (home of Washington
Irving), 137, 223, 225, 226, 227.

Swartwout, Gen. John, 295.

Swartwout, Samuel, 288, 303.

Sweden, Col. Burr's correspondents,
personal friends, and acquaintances
in, 331, 332.

Table, hexagonal (used by Rev.

Jonathan Edwards), 94.
Talleyrand-Perigord, 216, 218, 219,

221.
Tarbox, Rev. I. N., D.D. (of Boston,

Mass.), 51.
Tennent Gilbert (Indian missionary),

81, 82.
The Lines (Westchester County,

N. Y.), 109.

Theodosia, "the gift of God," 121.
Theodosia (the name), 8.
Theodosia's portraits, 434.
The Wrecker's Story, 371-375.
Tice, Mrs. (of Dowagiac, Mich.), 408.
Tillett, Joseph ("banker" of Nag's

Head, N. C.), 370, 380.

Todd, Charles Burr, G, 7, 9, 72,

140, 458.
Todd, Rev. John (of Pittsfield, Mass.),

51.

Tompkins, Mrs. Minthome, 432.
Tontine Coffee House, 259.
Traitor, What Constitutes a, 330.
Troup, Col. Robert, 113, Hi). 139.
Tryon, Gen., 109.
Tuthill (Tuttle) Elizabeth, 14.
Twichell, Rev. Dr. Joseph H. (of

Hartford, Conn.), 55.
Tyler, Prof. William S., D.D. (of

Amherst College), 50.
Tyson, J. Aubrey, 121.

United States, financial condition of
(in 1811), 294.

Valley Forge, 108.

Vanderlinde, Benjamin, 141, 144.

Vanderlyn, John, 247, 257, 428, 429,

430, 431, 433.

Vandervelten, Madame, 318.
Van Dyke, Rev. Paul, 81.
Van Home, Augusta Louise Matilda

Theodosia (one of Theodosia's

nicknames), 195.
Van Ness, Judge William P., 223,

265, 269.

V. D. M. (Verbi dci minister), 83.
Vindication of the Rights of Woman,

166, 184.

Volney, Count, 216, 217, 221.
Voltaire, 164.
Vroom, W. H. (written also W. L.),

142, 144.

Wadsworth, Mrs. A. E. W. (of

Cambridge, Mass.), 366.
Waldwick, "a light in the woods"

(present name of the De Visme

Hermitage), 136.

484

INDEX

Walton, F. J. (of Ridgewood, N. J.),
155.

Wartzbourg, Chateau of, 318.

Washington, Gen. George, 107, 109,
171, 216.

Wead, Charles Kasson, 431.

Webb, - - 115.

Webb, Mrs. (Joshua), 432.

Weed, Thurlow, 177.

Wheeler, Col. J. H. (of Washington,
D. C.), 387, 417.

Wheeler, Mrs. Col. J. H. (daughter
of Sully, the painter), 395.

Whitefield, George, 64.

Whiting, Mrs. Mary E. (of Bingham-
ton, N. Y.), 50.

Whitney, Eli (of New Haven, Conn.),
54.

Whittier, John Greenleaf, 223.

Whittier's poem on (Jonathan) Ed-
wards, 55, 56.

Wilder, Prof. Alexander, 38.

William the First, Emperor (of Ger-
many), 113.

Wilson, Gen. James Grant, 123.
Windsor Farmes, 13.
Winship, Edith A., 26.
Winthrop, Gov., 6, 12.
Wolfe, Gen. James, 115.
Wollstonecraft, Mary, 166, 176, 177,

184, 203, 442.
Woodbridge, Joseph Effingham (of

Brooklyn, N. Y.), 52.
Woodbridge, Rev. George, D.D. (of

Richmond, Va.), 51.
Woodbridge, Rev. Jonathan E. (of

Auburndale, Mass.), 50, 54.
Woolsey, Prof. Theodore S., LL.D.

(of Yale University), 55.
Woolsey Rev. Theodore Dwight,

D.D., 23, 50.
Wraxall, Capt. Peter, 115.

You, Dominique (the pirate), 360,
406.

Zandt Berg (Sand Hill), 207, 209.
Zion's Herald (Boston, Mass.), 60.

I 0 1931